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January in Barcelona 2025

Activities and events in January in Barcelona

After the festive whirlwind of December, January in Barcelona offers a chance to relax and recharge. But don’t let the slower pace fool you, as winter activities are still in full swing, with many markets remaining open throughout the month. While January is typically the coldest time of the year in Barcelona, you can still count on plenty of sunny days to bask in the city’s charm and vibrant atmosphere.

What to do in January in Barcelona?

Bank Holidays

The start of the New Year

Kicking off the new year, Barcelona extends its New Year’s Eve celebrations into 1st January with unique traditions and activities. One highlight is the New Year’s Swim, held at noon on beaches all along Barcelona’s coast. Brave participants dive into the chilly Mediterranean waters, to represent a lively and refreshing start to the year. Whether you join the swim or cheer from the shore, this event embodies the city’s vibrant and adventurous spirit.

Three Kings' Day in Barcelona

Three Kings’ Day in Barcelona, also known ‘Dia de los tres Reyes’ in Spanish, and ‘Dia de Reis’ in Catalan, is one of the most celebrated and important holidays in Spain. Traditionally, Three Kings’ Day commemorates the day the Three Wise Men presented their gifts to the baby Jesus. As a significant event in the Catholic calendar, it also marks the end of the Christmas season, celebrated as the 12th day of Christmas.

January in Barcelona: Festas

Tres Tombs

The Tres Tombs Festival is a tradition deeply embedded in Barcelona’s history. It originated in the Sant Antoni neighborhood to honour Sant Antoni, the patron saint of animals. In his tribute, a parade featuring horses and other animals winds through the main streets of Barcelona. The event also carries religious significance. During the parade, there is a stop at the church in Plaça d’Orfila, where the animals receive a blessing.

Festa Major de Sant Antoni

The Festa Major de Sant Antoni is the first major celebration of the year in Barcelona, taking place in the vibrant Sant Antoni neighbourhood. This lively festival marks the start of the city’s annual cycle of celebrations and festivals. Highlights include the Giants Parade, where enormous, colourful figures march through the streets, and the electrifying Correfoc, where participants dressed as devils light fireworks and dance through the city after dark in a thrilling “fire run.”

Foguerons de Gràcia

The Foguerons de Gràcia is an annual event in Barcelona’s Gràcia neighbourhood, celebrating the Mallorcan tradition of honouring Saint Anthony (Sant Antoni). The festival brings the vibrant customs of Sa Pobla to Barcelona, featuring bonfires, traditional music, and dances. Majorcan foods are also consumed and there are a ton of different workshops to attend. 

Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year celebration in Barcelona, held around Passeig Lluís Companys, near Arc de Triomf, is a condensed version of the 15-day Chinese festival. Chinese New Year in 2025 begins on the 29th of January, marking the first new moon of the lunar calendar, however in Barcelona, main celebrations will be held on the 25th of January. This year honours the Wood Snake, an animal symbolising wisdom, intuition, and charm.

 

It’s a moment for the city’s multicultural community to come together and celebrate the start of the Lunar New Year, a festival with deep significance in Chinese culture. This celebration beautifully blends Catalan and Chinese customs, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of both communities. It allows people to experience a unique cross-cultural exchange through lively performances, parades, and diverse culinary offerings in one afternoon.

January in Barcelona: Events

Els Llums de Sant Pau

A Christmas highlight that extends until 12th January is the Llums de Sant Pau at the modernist Hospital de Sant Pau. This dazzling light display transforms the historic hospital complex into a luminous wonderland, making it a must-see attraction. Visitors can stroll through the illuminated grounds, marveling at the intricate light installations. It’s a magical experience perfect for all ages.

Circ Raluy

If you are looking for a fun family activity, then the Circ Raluy (Circus) is the perfect thing for you! Circ Raluy Legacy returns to Barcelona’s Port Vell with their innovative show ‘Cyborg’, running until 2nd March 2025. This performance blends traditional circus elements with modern sensory experiences, featuring acrobatics, balancing acts, and humour. 

Palo Alto Market

The Palo Alto Market is a vibrant and creative urban market, known for its unique blend of design, art, gastronomy, and music. The market takes place in the picturesque surroundings of a refurbished factory in the Poblenou neighbourhood. The space is transformed into a cultural hub with artisanal stalls offering handmade products, vintage items, and innovative designs. In addition to shopping, the market features gourmet food trucks, live music, and workshops.

Cursa Sant Antoni

The Cursa Moritz Sant Antoni is an annual 10km event that opens Barcelona’s athletic calendar. In addition to the main 10K race, there are shorter distances for children, ranging from 200 meters to 1.6K meters. The 2025 edition of the Cursa Moritz Sant Antoni is scheduled for 26th January, featuring a new 5K race alongside the traditional 10K. This event not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters community spirit.

Other activities

Winter sales (rebajas)

Indulge in winter sales (rebajas) starting 6th/7th January, Barcelona’s shops launch their winter sales. It’s the perfect opportunity to find bargains on fashion, accessories, and more.

Day trip to the Pyrenees

For an unforgettable snowy getaway, the Pyrenees Mountains offer a perfect escape just a short journey from the city. With their majestic peaks and pristine winter landscapes, the Pyrenees cater to both adventurers and relaxation-seekers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker ready to carve through fresh powder on skis, an enthusiast eager to master the art of snowboarding, or simply someone who enjoys the tranquility of breathtaking snow-covered vistas, this destination has something for everyone.

Other things to do in Winter

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