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?
Major dates
New Year's Day
Three Kings' Day - Epiphany
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.
- 5th and 6th of January
January in Barcelona: Festas
Tres Tombs
The Tres Tombs Festival is celebrated on 17th January every year, and pays homage to Saint Anthony (Sant Antoni), the patron saint of animals. In his honour, a musical parade featuring horses and other animals winds through Barcelona’s city centre (specifically in the Sant Antoni and Sant Andreu areas). The parade is typically held on the Saturday closest to the feast day.
A key part of this tradition is the religious element, where participans of the parade stop in front of the Escola Pia de Sant Antoni or at the church in Plaça d’Orfila (Sant Andreu). Here, the animals receive a special blessing. This blend of cultural, historical, and spiritual significance makes the Tres Tombs Festival a cherished event in the city’s calendar.
- 17th January
- Sant Antoni & Sant Andreu
- More info
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.”
- 17th - 26th January
- Sant Antoni
- More info
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). Established in 1993 by Mallorcan native Antoni Torrens, 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. Typically held during the last weekend of January, the 2025 edition is scheduled for 25th/26th January.
The festivities include lighting bonfires in various streets and squares, such as Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia and Plaça del Diamant, accompanied by performances from ‘xeremiers’ (traditional Mallorcan bagpipers) and other folk groups. This event fosters cultural exchange and community spirit.
- 25th - 26th January
- Gràcia neighbourhood
- More info
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.
- From 10 EUR
- Until 12th January
- Hospital de Sant Pau.
- More info
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.
- From 10 EUR - 28 EUR
- Until 2nd of March
- Port Vell
- More info
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.
- 5.50 (tickets are sold online with availability for two different time slots (12-5pm & 5:30-10pm)).
- First weekend of the month
- Poblenou
- More info
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.
- Children registration from 1 EUR, 5K registration from 10 EUR, 10K registration from 16 EUR
- 26th January
- Sant Antoni
- More info
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 events
New Year's Day
Three Kings' Day - Epiphany
Onsite Open Day for Early Years and Primary in BSB Sitges
Other
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.
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