Christmas in Catalonia is a magical time, especially for children. The traditions and special events held across the region fill the holidays with joy and wonder. From bustling Christmas markets and lively fairs to the excitement of the "Tió" tradition or the arrival of the Three Kings, Catalonia offers unique family experiences that will make the festive season truly unforgettable. Discover how to create magical holiday memories with your loved ones in Catalonia. Festive activities for the whole family In Calella, the Christmas season runs from December 1 to January 7 with a variety of events to enjoy. Wander through the Christmas Fair, join the "Tió" (Catalan Pooping Log) tradition, visit the village nativity scene, explore the Royal Camp, or experience the magic of the Three Kings’ Parade. Music also plays a big role in the celebrations, with street jazz performances and the traditional Christmas Concert! Have you heard about the Mar dels Nens? This children’s park is a must-visit in Platja d’Aro every Christmas. Located in the town's Sports and Congress Palace, it offers workshops, inflatables, giant games, and live shows. The park is open from December 27 to 30 and January 2 to 4, from 4 PM to 8 PM. There’s even a quiet zone with low lighting and no music from 4 PM to 5 PM, perfect for those with sensory sensitivities. Platja d’Aro also hosts a Christmas treasure hunt in December. Search for Xalarí and Xalarina, the town’s family tourism mascots, hiding in shop windows across the town. Pick up a map from the Tourist Office and start the adventure. Find them, and you’ll win a prize! The hunt covers Platja d’Aro, Castell d’Aro, and s’Agaró and runs until January 7. This year, pictograms have been added to enhance accessibility and inclusion for everyone. If you’re in the mood for ice skating, Platja d’Aro has a covered ice rink decorated with festive lights and music, creating a truly magical skating experience. Located in Estanys Square, the rink is open from December 1 to January 7. The Muntanyes de Prades area offers various holiday activities. In l’Espluga de Francolí, children aged 3 to 8 can join their parents in the kids’ "Lucky Walk," a 5 km family-friendly route with a gift raffle at the end. There’s also a Christmas camp hosted by Drac Actiu, featuring sports, crafts, games, and nature excursions tailored to kids of different ages. Meanwhile, in Montblanc, you’ll find another Christmas camp, along with storytelling sessions, workshops, and guided visits to the Nativity Museum and the County Museum. What’s more traditional than the "Tió" tradition at Christmas? In Prades, no child is left without a surprise gift. Grab a stick and join in the fun while waiting for the Three Kings’ arrival! Living nativity scenes and sandy masterpieces In Joanetes, a quaint village in Vall d’en Bas-Les Preses, the highlight of Christmas is the living nativity scene. Every year, the whole village comes together to recreate 40 beautifully staged scenes. You’ll see the blacksmith at work, pass by artisan shops, and arrive at the manger where Mary and Joseph watch over baby Jesus. Performances take place on December 25 at 7 PM, and on December 26, 30, and January 1 at 6 PM. In Castell d’Aro, the living nativity scene takes you through the historic center and the natural area of Vall de la Coma. Over 400 locals participate in 52 scenes depicting rural life, including characters like the charcoal maker and the river laundress. The 1.5 km route is staged at 7 PM on December 17, 23, 25, 26, 30, and January 1. For its 64th edition, you can also visit the diorama exhibition and Christmas compositions at Benedormiens Castle and the old casino. Ever seen a nativity scene on the beach? At Parc del Pinar de Perruquet in Vila-seca – la Pineda Platja, an impressive sand nativity scene is crafted every year. Made from nearly 300 m3 of sand, it’s a spectacular sight, complemented by family activities such as games and caroling. Christmas fairs and festive flavors December is the season for Christmas fairs. In Santa Susanna, a fair on December 16 offers activities like the "Tió" tradition, children’s train rides, and an eco-friendly carousel, along with a Christmas bingo. After exploring craft stalls run by local kids, enjoy the magical Light Fairy show. Feeling festive? In Calafell, the Taste Christmas festival features local products, showcooking sessions, and tastings, so everyone can enjoy the flavors of the season. Christmas is also a time for giving. At the Petit Mercat de Nadal in Platja d'Aro, families can buy second-hand toys and games from stalls run by local children, giving new life to pre-loved items. The market is held on December 3 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Plaça del Mil·lenari. Letters to the Three Kings and royal camps From mid-December to January 5, children across Catalonia can deliver their letters to royal pages and postmen. In Torroella de Montgrí-l’Estartit, royal postmen collect letters on January 5 at Plaça de la Vila, and in l’Estartit, royal pages arrive on January 1 at 4:30 PM at Plaça de l’Església. In Castelldefels, the royal camp at the castle features gift-wrapping demonstrations, storytelling, and entertainers to keep families engaged while they wait to deliver their letters. In Vila-seca – la Pineda Platja, royal tents are set up at Plaça de Sant Joan de la Plana and Parc del Pinar de Perruquet, as well as at the Magic Office in Vila-seca Castle. Calonge and Sant Antoni offer a unique royal camp experience with balloon-twisting workshops and special crafts for creating illuminated messages for the Star of Bethlehem. Held on January 4, this event is perfect for families looking for a magical and memorable holiday outing. The “Man of the Noses” tradition On December 31, look out for the "Man of the Noses," a quirky character with as many noses as there are days in the year. He parades through towns with giants, music, and children’s entertainment, sometimes delivering speeches from town hall balconies. In some villages, like l’Espluga de Francolí, the "Woman of the Noses" also joins the festivities in a special parade. The magical arrival of the Three Kings On January 5, families across Catalonia gather for the Three Kings’ parades. These vibrant processions light up the streets, sometimes ending with fireworks. In some towns, the Three Kings visit the nativity scene, are welcomed by local authorities, and wave to children from balconies. Don’t forget to catch as many sweets as you can!