A Fun and Tasty Winter Tradition: Discover the Calçotada Experience in Barcelona!

What Are Calçots?

Calçots are a variety of green onions grown in Catalonia, harvested between November and April. They are milder and sweeter than regular onions, making them perfect for roasting over an open fire. The traditional way to eat them is grilled until charred, then peeled and dipped into romesco sauce—a delicious blend of tomatoes, almonds, garlic, and olive oil.

The History of the Calçotada Tradition

The calçotada tradition originated in Valls, a small town in Tarragona, about an hour from Barcelona. According to legend, a farmer accidentally burned his onions in the fire, but when he peeled away the charred layers, he discovered a sweet, tender vegetable inside. Since then, grilled calçots have become a winter delicacy, celebrated with family feasts and festivals.

When and Where to Enjoy a Calçotada in Barcelona

The best time to experience a calçotada is from January to March, when restaurants and countryside farms host these special meals. You can find calçotadas in various settings:

• Restaurants in Barcelona: Many traditional Catalan restaurants, called masias, offer calçotada menus. Some popular spots include Can Travi Nou, Can Cortada, and El Jardí de l’Àpat.

• Countryside Masias: If you want a more authentic experience, visit a rural masia (country house restaurant) in Montseny, Penedès, or Valls.

• Public Festivals: The biggest calçot festival is in Valls, typically held in late January. There, you can watch calçot-eating competitions, cooking demonstrations, and even enjoy giant human towers (castells).

• DIY Calçotada: Many parks and picnic areas around Barcelona, like Collserola Natural Park, have public barbecue areas where families can grill their own calçots.

How to Eat Calçots (A Fun Guide for Families!)

Eating calçots is a fun (and messy) experience, especially for kids! Here’s how to do it:

1. Put on a bib – Calçotadas are messy, and restaurants often provide paper bibs to protect your clothes.

2. Pick up a calçot by its green leaves – Hold it upright like a sword.

3. Peel off the charred outer layer – Use your fingers to remove the burnt part, revealing the tender inside.

4. Dip it into romesco sauce – The more sauce, the better!

5. Tilt your head back and eat it in one go – This is the fun part! Kids love the challenge of eating calçots hands-free.

What Comes After the Calçots?

After finishing the calçots, the meal continues with grilled meats like lamb, sausages (botifarra), and Catalan white beans. Everything is accompanied by pa amb tomàquet (bread rubbed with tomato and olive oil) and local wine or cava for the adults.

A Perfect Family Experience

A calçotada is more than just a meal—it’s a social event where families gather, share stories, and enjoy the outdoors. Kids will love the hands-on eating experience, while parents can appreciate the delicious flavors and local traditions.

If you're visiting Barcelona between January and March, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a calçotada—a true taste of Catalan culture that the whole family will love!

@visit.familybarcelona