Christmas in the Girona regions is an experience that combines tradition, gastronomy and a unique atmosphere that invites you to experience these holidays with intensity and warmth. Every corner of this region dresses up to welcome locals and visitors with activities that embody the Christmas spirit.
Traditions
In Girona, Christmas is full of endearing traditions. One of the most beloved is the « Tió de Nadal« , a log that children feed and care for in the weeks leading up to Christmas. On the night of December 24th, the tió « poops » out presents after being hit with sticks while a traditional song is sung. This family ritual is a magical moment full of laughter and joy.
Another notable tradition is the « Pessebres Vivents« , live representations of the birth of Jesus. In towns such as Castell d’Aro, Bàscara or Joanetes, the living nativity scenes become impressive spectacles, where neighbours are transformed into biblical characters in natural settings. Walking through these representations is like going back in time and feeling the story of Christmas with all your senses.
Of course, the Three Wise Men Parade on 6 January is also a highly anticipated moment. In Girona city and in many towns in the region, the Kings arrive in spectacular floats that light up the streets and distribute sweets and magic to everyone.
Typical gastronomy of the festivities
Christmas in the Girona regions is also a perfect excuse to enjoy its rich gastronomy. At this time, tables are filled with traditional dishes that conquer hearts and palates.
A must is the « escudella i carn d’olla« , a hearty soup with galets (a type of large pasta) filled with meat that represents the star dish of the Christmas meal. Next up are cannelloni, which are usually prepared on St. Stephen’s Day (December 26th) with leftover meat from the day before, creating a delicious recipe that leaves no waste.
As for sweets, you can’t miss the nougats and the « neules« . The nougat, made with almonds, honey and sugar, comes in various varieties, from the traditional ones to those made with chocolate or praline. The neules, light and crunchy wafers, are the perfect accompaniment to a glass of cava, which cannot be missed when toasting these holidays.
Christmas markets and fairs
If there is something that makes Christmas special in Girona, it is its Christmas markets and fairs, ideal for finding decorations, artisanal products and unique gifts.
The Girona Christmas Market, located in the Plaça de la Independència, is a must-see. Its stalls offer everything from Christmas decorations to local crafts, and the atmosphere is pure Christmas. In addition, the market is complemented by activities such as children’s workshops and musical performances. In towns such as Olot and Figueres, there are also charming markets that stand out for their range of handmade products and the warmth of their inhabitants, who spread their Christmas enthusiasm to everyone who walks between the stalls.
On the other hand, we cannot forget the Banyoles Nativity Scene Exhibition, a unique event where Nativity scenes and figures related to this tradition are the main protagonists.
A Christmas destination that will make you fall in love
Beyond the markets and traditions, Girona offers an endless number of Christmas activities to enjoy with family or friends. In the historic centre of Girona, walking among the Christmas lights and decorations is a delight, with the imposing facades and medieval streets that create a fairy-tale setting.
In the Girona Pyrenees, the Christmas atmosphere blends with the snowy landscape, offering the possibility of practising winter sports and, at the same time, enjoying small towns that seem straight out of a Christmas postcard.
Don’t hesitate to visit this region and let yourself be enveloped by the Christmas spirit that only the Girona region can offer by staying in one of our campsites that are open all year round!