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Christmas is coming, which for many people is a time to shop. Perhaps you need gifts for family or friends, or if you have children they most likely expect the house to be decorated for Christmas.
You’ll need to be both patient and creative.
Some people love holiday shopping and could spend hours just looking without even buying. But for others, it is a chore and they just want the ordeal over as soon as possible.
Since these are tough times economically, we must sharpen our wits. That is why we are going to recommend some places to shop in the city of Barcelona where it is also delightful to walk. That way, those who are tormented by shopping can have something to look forward to.
The Fira de Santa Llúcia
The best known is undoubtedly the Fira de Santa Llúcia, which dates from 1786. It is named for this saint and martyr who is well known in Catalonia and is celebrated every December 13. This street fair takes place from December 1 to 23 in the Gothic quarter, in the square of the Cathedral of Barcelona. Here you’ll find all sorts of Christmastime idiosyncrasies as well as exhibitions. The illumination of the majestic cathedral after dark makes it all worthwhile.
Here we can also admire great artists working in the nativity tradition. There are about 280 stands, which are divided into sections such as artisanal, nativity scenes and figures, and you’ll find all kinds of accessories for nativity scenes and home decor, evergreens and other plants; the trees, moss, cork, crafts, clothing, jewelry, ornaments, etc. make great gifts for the holiday season. And there are also instruments like zambomba drums and tambourines.
The Fira de Nadal
Another highly recommended market is the Fira de Nadal, which has been held since 1962. Locate near the Sagrada Familia, its 150 stands offer just about everything you need to celebrate Christmas at home. Its location next to the Passion façade of the Sagrada Familia offers yet another beauty to behold. The sections are divided just like those of the Santa Llúcia fair, with exclusive sections reserved for that unique figure of the Catalan Christmas, the caganer and cagatió. They also host nativity scene exhibitions. This tradition which is so rooted in the Spanish culture still prevails despite the influences of other countries and an attempt to globalize Christmas.
Additional options
Other prominent fairs and small markets in Barcelona that we recommend are the Christmas Fair in the Marquesina de la Via Júlia in Nou Barris, and the crafts and artisanal products at Kennedy Square in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi.
With regard to crafts and artisinal products, just about every district of the city has something to offer, including Ciutat Vella (Plaza del Pi) which also offers food, Sants-Montjuïc (Plaza de Sants), Sant Andreu, Gracia, Moll de la Barceloneta, ´RegalART ´ in the Casa Orlandai, and antiques on the Diagonal.
We are certain that you can find everything you need for Christmas, including decorations, food and gifts, at one of these locations
When Christmastime arrives, Barcelona is full of markets. You can enjoy your stay in the city and also take care of your Christmas shopping. And you can even celebrate Christmas in Barcelona when you rent one of our apartments in Barcelona city center .
