Main celebrations in Catalonia
In Catalonia, many traditions are linked to celebrating them in groups and a good example are the carnivals. These are popular celebrations held to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year. Some of the main carnivals in Catalonia are the following:
New Year's Eve in Barcelona: The city of Barcelona celebrates a great New Year's Eve in Plaça d'Espanya. Thousands of people gather to enjoy a show of lights, music and fireworks. The party continues throughout the night with live music, performances and a festive atmosphere in the streets and squares of the city.
Revetlla de Sant Joan: The revetlla de Sant Joan, which is celebrated on the night of June 23, is one of the most important festivals in Catalonia. Bonfires and fireworks are held throughout the country, especially on beaches and coastal areas. People gather around the fire to eat coca de Sant Joan (a typical sweet cake) and toast with cava to say goodbye to summer.
Christmas Eve Revetlla: On the night of December 24, Catalonia celebrates the Christmas Eve Revetlla. Families gather for the traditional Christmas dinner and later carols are sung and gifts are distributed. In many Catalan localities, representations of the living nativity scene are performed, a deeply rooted tradition.
Revetlla de la Castanyada: On the night of October 31, Catalonia celebrates the Revetlla de la Castanyada. This traditional holiday coincides with the eve of All Saints' Day. During this celebration, families and friends gather to eat roasted chestnuts, panellets (typical sweets of Castanyada), sweet potatoes and candied fruit. It is a time to enjoy a wide variety of sweet flavors and spend a pleasant time together. In addition to food, music, dancing and live performances often accompany this festivity, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere.