This blog post was originally posted on November 21, 2014, and was updated on November 27, 2019.
Barcelona’s Christmas markets provide a classic European feel with a Catalan twist.
Known as firas, Christmas markets here in the Catalan capital are unlike any other you’ll experience. And what makes the Christmas markets in Barcelona even better is their diversity! No matter what kind of shopping experience you’re hoping to have, there’s a fira for you.
From gourmet food markets to stalls selling handcrafted toys, the city’s markets offer everything you could possibly want and then some. Simply put, they’re a time-honored tradition that have delighted locals and guests alike for generations. Here are our picks for the Christmas markets in Barcelona you can’t miss this year!
Photo Credit: reivax, Text Overlay: Devour Barcelona Food Tours
Fira de Santa Llúcia
We can’t talk about Christmas markets in Barcelona without first mentioning the biggest, oldest and most well-known: the Fira de Santa Llúcia.
Kicking off in late November and lasting until just before Christmas, the market has been going strong for more than 230 years and only keeps getting better. You’ll find it just outside the city’s massive Gothic cathedral, making it easily accessible from just about anywhere in the city. Locals flock here from all corners of Barcelona to buy all kinds of traditional Christmas items, including pieces for their home nativity scenes.
2019 dates: November 29–December 23
Fira Nadal de la Sagrada Familia
It should come as no surprise that another one of the most iconic Christmas markets in Barcelona takes place at the city’s most well-known monument!
The Sagrada Familia Christmas Market offers a little bit of everything—from jewelry to decorations to wine and sweets—spread out among more than 100 unique stalls. Although it only dates back to the 1960s, it has become a cherished tradition among locals.
2019 dates: November 23–December 23
Fira de Reis de la Gran Via
The fun doesn’t stop after Christmas! After all, here in Spain, the holiday festivities last until January 6—the Three Kings’ Day. It’s only appropriate that one of the best Christmas markets in Barcelona commemorates this popular celebration, too!
Don’t miss the Kings’ Market on Gran Vía (between Muntaner and Calabria streets). Divided into two sections—toys and handcrafted goods—this easy-to-navigate market is the perfect place to find a Reyes gift for everyone on your list. And don’t forget to grab some churros from the various stands dotted around the market!
2019–2020 dates: December 19–January 6
Poble Espanyol holiday festivities
Poble Espanyol (“Spanish Village”) is the perfect place to discover Spain without leaving Barcelona, but during the winter holidays, they truly take things to another level.
Starting in early December, the popular corner of Montjuïc transforms itself into a winter wonderland that would rival any fairytale. Santa Claus and the Three Kings come to life, live music and craft demonstrations provide a cultural vibe, and one of the best Christmas markets in Barcelona fills the village streets. Here, you’ll be able to support local artisans and designers selling their products in one of Barcelona’s most iconic venues. Check the website for more information about this year’s event as it becomes available!
This year’s event will take place twice, once in early December and again later in the month, so you have a good chance of catching it no matter when you come.
2019 dates: December 6–8 and December 21–29
Festivalet
For more than a decade, the artisans behind Europe’s finest handcrafted goods have gathered in Barcelona just before the winter holidays to show off and sell the fruits of their labor. Known as Festivalet, this one-of-a-kind event has grown to become one of the most popular alternative Christmas markets in Barcelona.
Nearly 100 stalls selling handmade gifts, delicious food, and even materials for your own DIY projects will take over the Maritime Museum this year. The entrance fee will only set you back two euros and provide you with access to a world of gorgeous gift ideas.
2019 dates: December 14 & 15
The festivalet is one of the best handmade events in Spain
We couldn’t agree more!