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Christmas is the ideal moment to immerse yourself in the traditions of the Costa Brava and the Girona Pyrenees. From charming markets to living nativity scenes, every activity is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.
Olot. Maria Geli. Pilar Planagumà. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
Christmas markets are an unmissable classic. In Tossa de Mar, the historic centre is filled with craft stalls and Christmas sweets, while in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, the port and squares become the perfect place to wander around with your family and create your list of unique gifts from the Three Kings. Begur is a town that combines the magic of Christmas with a medieval charm, offering a market full of local products, among the stones and saltpetre.
In Girona, the Christmas Market in the Plaça Independència offers traditional decorations and irresistible gastronomic delicacies. In Figueres, the festive atmosphere is everywhere, with children’s activities and live music. Similarly, villages such as Banyoles, a medieval water town, Olot and Camprodon delight visitors with markets that celebrate the essence of the mountains, with traditional products and a unique warmth.
A special mention should be made of the Fira de l’Avet d’Espinelves, one of the region’s most emblematic events, which dates back to 1984. This fair, now recognised throughout Catalonia, is the perfect place to buy your Christmas tree and enjoy a magical atmosphere surrounded by forests and tradition.
Living nativity scenes are an essential part of Christmas on the Costa Brava and in the Girona Pyrenees. In fact, many have been declared of National Interest because they are a unique experience that allow visitors to go back to the time of the Nativity. With spectacular scenographies and a careful historical recreation, the most renowned nativity scenes take place in Bàscara (one of the oldest in the country); Castell d’Aro, Pals and Llers, and offer a combination of tradition and art that captivates all who visit. They are not to be missed!
Girona. Feelmoo Audiovisuals. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
The Network of Museums of Girona is also involved in these festivities and holds special events. Once again this year the 26 museums in the counties of Girona are joining forces to promote Christmas at the Museum with family workshops, concerts, themed exhibitions and special guided tours. These are just some of the activities that you can find during the festive season at the Girona Art Museum, the Cinema Museum and the Palamós Fishing Museum, among others. It’s the perfect way to combine culture and the magic of Christmas.
Girona. Beto Perez. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
The Girona Christmas Circus is a must for those looking for excitement and fun. With amazing acts that combine acrobatics, comedy and music, this show has become a classic to enjoy during the festive season in the capital and is a perfect plan to enjoy with the family, but also with friends.
Cap de Creus. Clickart. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
Cadaqués offers a special way to start the year with the meeting of the rising sun, a gathering that celebrates the first sunrise, where you are invited to experience it! It was held for the first time in 1990 in Cap de Creus and since then, it has become customary to feel the warmth of the year’s first rays of sunshine, listening to cobla music and dancing sardanes. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t worry, you can also watch the sunrise on the 1st with a hot chocolate in your hand, for everyone to enjoy.
Girona. Feelmoo Audiovisuals. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
Another must-see event of the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees festivals is the Shepherds’ play, a theatrical performance that tells the story of the birth of Jesus and the struggle between good and evil. It is an experience that fascinates young and old alike and keeps alive one of Catalonia’s most beloved cultural traditions. A good example is the show put on year after year by the Shepherds of Girona, which combines comedy, music and tradition in an inclusive and innovative format.
Figueres. Josep Ma Rodriguez-Feelmo. Arxiu Imatges PTCBG
And from the Shephers to the Three Kings: the Three Kings parades are the long-awaited culmination of the festivities and the most magical night of the year for the children. In Girona, those attending will be able to see the Three Kings and their entourage starting from the Parc de la Devesa, where they will continue on to La Copa, where the grand finale will take place. But it’s not only the capital that puts on a fantastic parade, you can also enjoy the Three Kings’ Night in Figueres, Olot and Blanes, among others, with illuminated floats, music and a shower of sweets to delight young and old.
