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Fewer Tourists: December is generally less crowded than other peak tourist seasons in Barcelona, allowing you to enjoy the city’s attractions without overwhelming crowds.
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Unique Festivities: Barcelona comes alive during the Christmas season, with festive decorations, lights, and a vibrant atmosphere. You can experience Christmas markets, concerts, and other special events.
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Christmas Shopping: Barcelona is known for its shopping, and December is an excellent time to find unique gifts and souvenirs at local markets, boutiques, and department stores.
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Cultural Activities: The city’s museums, art galleries, and theaters offer a range of exhibitions and performances throughout the year, providing a chance to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s rich culture.
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Culinary Delights: Barcelona offers a diverse culinary scene, and December is a perfect time to sample traditional Catalan dishes and seasonal specialties like “Escudella i Carn d’Olla” (meat and vegetable stew) and “Polvorones” (shortbread cookies).
Weather In Barcelona During December
The weather in Barcelona, Spain during December is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging between 9°C (48°F) and 15°C (59°F). It is important to note that these are just averages and actual temperatures can vary, especially towards the beginning or end of the month.
Here’s a closer look at the weather conditions in Barcelona during December:
Temperature:
- Average high temperature: 15°C (59°F)
- Average low temperature: 9°C (48°F)
- Daily temperature range: 6°C (11°F)
Rainfall:
- Average rainfall: 50mm (2 inches)
- Number of rainy days: 6-8 days
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 15km/h (9mph)
- Prevailing wind direction: Northeast
Humidity:
- Average humidity: 70-80%
Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours: 5-6 hours per day
Daylight:
- Sunrise: Around 8:00 AM
- Sunset: Around 5:30 PM
Overall, the weather in Barcelona during December is mild and favorable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it’s always a good idea to pack layers of clothing as temperatures can fluctuate and it may get chilly in the evenings and mornings. Additionally, it’s worth noting that December is one of the wettest months in Barcelona, so it’s advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat just in case.
Things To Do In Barcelona In December
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Christmas Markets: Throughout December, various Christmas markets pop up across the city, offering a festive atmosphere with stalls selling handmade gifts, decorations, and traditional Catalan food. Some popular markets to explore include the Fira de Santa Llúcia near the Barcelona Cathedral, the Mercat de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia, and the Fira de Nadal del Port Vell in the Port Vell harbor.
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Christmas Lights and Decorations: Barcelona transforms into a magical wonderland during December, with streets and buildings adorned with festive lighting, Christmas trees, and elaborate nativity scenes known as “pessebres.” Take a walk along the famous Passeig de Gràcia or visit the Plaça de Catalunya to admire the spectacular lights displays.
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Nativity Scenes Exhibitions: The tradition of creating and displaying nativity scenes is deeply rooted in Catalan culture. During December, various museums, churches, and public spaces showcase elaborate nativity scenes, ranging from traditional to contemporary interpretations. Some notable places to see nativity scenes include the Museu Etnològic de Barcelona, the Barcelona Cathedral, and the Poble Espanyol.
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Sant Nicolau Festival: On December 6th, Barcelona celebrates the feast of Sant Nicolau, also known as Saint Nicholas. This is a special day for children, as Sant Nicolau is said to bring gifts and treats to those who have been good throughout the year. Children often leave their shoes by the window or fireplace on the night before Sant Nicolau, hoping to find them filled with sweets and presents in the morning.
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Tió de Nadal: A unique Catalan tradition during the Christmas season is the Tió de Nadal, or Christmas Log. This is a hollowed-out log with a painted face and two small legs, often covered with a blanket. Children “feed” the Tió throughout December by leaving small offerings such as fruit, nuts, and sweets. On Christmas Eve, children gather around the Tió and sing traditional songs while beating it with sticks. This is believed to make the Tió “poop” out presents and treats.
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Christmas Concerts and Performances: Barcelona offers a wide range of musical and theatrical performances during the festive season. Attend a Christmas concert at the Palau de la Música Catalana or the Gran Teatre del Liceu, or enjoy a special holiday-themed show at one of the city’s many theaters.
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New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Barcelona bids farewell to the old year and welcomes the new with grand New Year’s Eve celebrations. The city center comes alive with music, lights, and festivities. The highlight is the spectacular fireworks display over the Plaça de Catalunya, which attracts thousands of people each year.
Tourism In Barcelona, Spain During December
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Christmas Markets: Barcelona’s Christmas markets are a popular attraction during December, with stalls selling a variety of festive gifts, decorations, and food.
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Ice Skating: Several locations in Barcelona offer ice skating rinks during the winter months, providing a fun and festive activity for locals and tourists alike.
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Christmas Lights: The city is adorned with festive Christmas lights during December, creating a magical atmosphere in the streets and squares.
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New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Barcelona is known for its lively New Year’s Eve celebrations, with fireworks displays, live music, and parties taking place throughout the city.
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Cultural Events: December is a busy month for cultural events in Barcelona, with theater performances, concerts, and art exhibitions taking place throughout the city.
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Christmas Concerts: The city’s music venues host a variety of Christmas concerts during December, featuring classical, traditional, and contemporary music.
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Winter Festivals: Barcelona hosts several winter festivals during December, such as the Santa Llúcia Fair and the Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família, which offer a mix of traditional and modern holiday traditions.
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Nativity Scenes: Nativity scenes, known as “pessebres” in Catalan, are a popular tradition in Barcelona during Christmas. Many families and institutions display elaborate nativity scenes in their homes and public spaces.
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Gastronomic Delights: Barcelona’s renowned culinary scene offers special Christmas menus and dishes during December, featuring traditional Catalan and international favorites.
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Shopping: Barcelona is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of stores and boutiques offering everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and local specialties.