Catalonia Holiday Calendar for Families

January

📅 January 6 – Epiphany (Reyes Magos)

This is one of the most magical days of the year for kids in Catalonia. On Epiphany, also known as Reyes Magos, the Three Wise Men arrive in the cities, bringing gifts to children. The celebration is marked by grand parades, known as the Cabalgata de Reyes, where the Three Kings and their helpers throw sweets and gifts to the crowd. It’s a thrilling experience for children of all ages, with a magical atmosphere that kicks off the year with joy and excitement.

February

🎭 February/March – Carnival (Carnaval)

Carnival is a vibrant celebration across Catalonia, with colorful costumes, joyful parades, and a festival atmosphere that will captivate the whole family. Children are encouraged to dress up and participate in the fun, with events like fancy dress contests, face painting, and lively processions. Cities such as Sitges and Tarragona are famous for their extravagant Carnival celebrations, which include music, dance, and family-friendly activities.

April

📖 April 23 – Sant Jordi

Sant Jordi, or St. George's Day, is Catalonia’s unique celebration of love and literature. Traditionally, men give roses to women, while women give books to men. For families, this day is especially exciting, as bookstores host storytelling sessions, and crafts like rose-making are popular activities for kids. It's a beautiful day that brings together romance, culture, and creativity, with streets filled with rose stalls and bookshops offering special deals.

May

🌸 May – Primavera Sound Festival (Family Days)

The renowned Primavera Sound Festival isn’t just for music lovers—this festival has Family Days, where children can enjoy a range of interactive activities, including music workshops, art displays, and performances. It's a fantastic opportunity to introduce the little ones to the world of culture, music, and creativity in a family-friendly environment.

June

🔥 June 23-24 – Sant Joan

Sant Joan is a midsummer celebration where the streets and beaches light up with bonfires, fireworks, and parties. It’s a time when families gather to enjoy the long summer nights with picnics, music, and, of course, plenty of fireworks. The beach parties are particularly popular, and you’ll find families enjoying the festive atmosphere until the early hours of the morning. This celebration has a truly magical vibe, and it’s one of the highlights of the summer for kids and parents alike.

September

🎡 September 11 – Catalonia National Day (Diada Nacional de Catalunya)

Catalonia’s National Day, or Diada Nacional, is a time to celebrate Catalan culture and heritage. Families can enjoy concerts, cultural events, and open-air activities that are family-friendly and fun for all ages. Kids will enjoy the festivities, including traditional dances like the Sardana, while adults can soak up the celebrations that showcase Catalonia’s unique identity.

October

🎃 October 31 - November 1 – Castanyada & Halloween

Castanyada is a traditional Catalan festival that celebrates the arrival of autumn. Families gather to enjoy roasted chestnuts, panellets (small almond sweets), and other seasonal treats. While this tradition is widely observed, Halloween is also gaining popularity, especially in the bigger cities, with children dressing up as ghosts, witches, and pumpkins, and going trick-or-treating. It’s a fun time for kids to enjoy both local culture and international festivities!

December

🎅 December 24-25 – Christmas (Navidad & Caga Tió)

Christmas in Catalonia comes with some fun, unique traditions that kids will love. The Caga Tió tradition is a highlight—children “feed” a wooden log for days before hitting it with sticks on Christmas Eve to “find” small presents and sweets inside. It’s an exciting and quirky way to celebrate the holiday season. On Christmas Day, families also come together for festive meals and gatherings, making it a warm, family-centric holiday.

🎇 December 31 – New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve in Catalonia is celebrated with the 12 Grapes of Luck. As the clock strikes midnight, people eat 12 grapes, one for each stroke of the bell, to bring good luck in the coming year. It’s a fun and family-friendly tradition, with children joining in the countdown and helping with the celebrations.

Festivals, Traditions, and Fun: A Year of Family Joy in Catalonia

Catalonia’s holiday calendar is filled with events and traditions that are perfect for families. From the magical Reyes Magos parade to the fun of Carnival, the excitement of Sant Joan to the cozy vibes of Castanyada, there’s always a reason to celebrate in this beautiful region of Spain. So, if you’re planning a family trip to Catalonia, make sure to check out these festivals and traditions that will make your experience even more special.

🌟 What holiday are you most excited to experience in Catalonia with your family?