Event Dates
From: Saturday, November 22, 2025
To: Tuesday, January 6, 2026
The atmosphere at the charming markets will get you into the true Christmas spirit – you won’t want to leave!
Barcelona is the perfect escape for a gay weekend of Christmas fun, parties and hot Spanish guys! Stuff your Santa sacks with lots of gifts and fun memories in one of Europe’s most gay-friendly cities.
- Visiting Barcelona for Christmas? The gay neighbourhood of Eixample, or Gayxample, is full of charming gay restaurants, bars and hotels. You can also find some great apartment options dotted across the city.
Christmas and New Year in Barcelona
- Saturday 22nd November, 2025 – Tuesday 6th January, 2026 – Note most markets open the week after light switch-on.
- Barcelona sparles from late November to early January with festive markets, street shows, and the big New Year celebration at Plaça d’Espanya.
- Wander the Fira de Santa Llúcia, explore the Sagrada Família market, and enjoy the Gaixample nightlife under the city’s glowing Christmas lights.
The Christmas Light Switch On
- Saturday 22nd November, 2025 – Barcelona’s Christmas lights will be switched on at 6.30 pm on Passeig de Gràcia, lighting up the whole city.
- Barcelona’s Christmas lights will run daily from 5.30 pm to 1 am (extended to 2 am on Fridays, Saturdays and key festive dates) until 6 January.
- This year’s display will cover 126 km of city streets (16 km more than in 2024), with a budget near €4 million
The Markets
- Next Edition: Thursday 27th November 2025 – Tuesday 6th January 2026.
- Barcelona is home to several traditional Christmas markets, each with its own unique offerings.
- Events begin in late November with the Christmas Lights Switch on.
- Different markets open at various dates from late November through to the Epiphany,.
- Note, Jan 5th/6th is rather a big celebration in Spain, much bigger than Christmas Day.
La Fira de Santa Lucia
- November 28th 2025 to December 23rd 2025 – Barcelona’s Santa Lucia Christmas Market is the city’s oldest, dating back to the late 18th Century. The Market is in front of the famous Barcelona Cathedral, along Avinguda de la Catedral de Barcelona. The Market is open daily from 10.30 to 20.30.
- Enjoy epic views of both the Market and the Cathedral by choosing a hotel nearby. Stay at the Ayre Hotel Rosellón and experience the breathtaking Cathedral from the rooftop bar, one of the most instagrammable spots in the city.
- The Market features more than 100 stalls selling a wide range of traditional goods, including caganers and cagatios.
Unusual Barcelona Christmas Traditions
- The Caganer or “Shitter” is a cheeky figure that first appeared in Catalan nativity scenes during the 18th Century. Traditional caganers wear Catalan national dress; a red and black “barretina” (sock hat), and “espardenyas” (canvas shoes). In recent years they have been joined by “celebrity” caganers depicting famous people, superheroes, politicians, footballers and members of the British royal family.
- Caga Tió is The Catalan equivalent of Father Christmas! Caga Tió is a Christmas log with a smiling face painted on one end. The log is placed in the living room on December 8th and has to be fed daily with traditional Christmas food like turró (Spanish nougat) and nuts. It is covered with a red blanket and wears a barretina to keep warm.
- The process of feeding and caring for the tió continues up until Christmas eve. Finally, the whole family gathers around the log and sings as the children hit it with sticks until it shits out presents!
- Make the NH Calderon your home base for your Christmas escape. It is ideally located close to the gay bars and clubs of Eixample; close to the famous Las Ramblas in the heart of Barcelona and a short ride from the Christmas Markets.
Book a Private Christmas Experience
- Get a glimpse of Barcelona at the most magical time of year on a private and customizable half-day tour at Christmas time. With just your guide and private party, you’ll see the Gothic Quarter adorned with festive lights, learn about Catalonia’s Christmas traditions, and sample gourmet treats at La Boqueria Market on Las Ramblas. Plus, you can choose a start time to suit your schedule.
Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família
- Next Edition: November 28th 2025 to December 23rd 2025
- The Fira de Nadal has been held in Plaça de la Sagrada Família since 1962, making it the Eixample district’s most traditional Christmas market. It starts at the end of November or the beginning of December and runs right up to Christmas.
- The numerous stalls that fill the square are divided into four sectors: Christmas trees and plants; nativity scenes, traditional figures and Christmas decorations in general; food, with some establishments selling sweets; and the gift sector, with stalls selling craft products, costume jewellery and clothes.
- The Sagrada Família fair is held at the same time as the Fira de Santa Llúcia, in front of the Cathedral. It is an extension of the latter and began when there was no more space in front of the Cathedral. A group of craftspeople decided to move to the Dreta de l’Eixample neighbourhood, and that is how a new Christmas market, which today has around a hundred stalls, was born.
- The Market is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm (10 pm on festivals and weekends).
Gay Parties in Barcelona during Christmas
- Check out the festive parties taking place over the Christmas Season in the city. Two events not to miss include the Churros event and the PopAir night.
- Enjoy a Christmas cocktail at the Axel Hotel Sky bar, a great way to start your evening out in the Eixample gay district. Follow up with a crazy and fun night at Priscilla featuring the city’s best drag shows and a unique atmosphere.
Fira de Reis, The Kings Market
- December 14th, 2025 – January 6th, 2026 – Christmas traditions in Spain are a bit different. The primary day for giving and receiving presents in Spain is Kings Day (dia dels Reis Mags) on January 6th. The Fira de Reis is located on Gran Via between Plaça de la Universitat and Carrer Comte Borell. Opening times are from 11:00 to 14:00, then 17:00 to 21:00.
The Three Kings Parade
- Although many locals celebrate Christmas day, the main party in Spain takes place on January 6th and is called the Feast of the Epiphany.
- The Night of the Three Kings (Cavalcada de Reis in Catalan) takes place on January 5th, and a colourful parade begins at Moll de la Fusta at Port Vell and makes its way through the city.
Other sights and Christmas Lights
- Plaça de Catalunya and the Ramblas get dressed up for the Christmas season. Take time to enjoy some spectacular Christmas lights and festive shop windows. For a special treat, head over for light and sound shows at Montjuic.
- Don’t miss the llums de Barcelona, a magical new Christmas tradition in one of Barcelona’s most historic locations, Sant Pau, running throughout December.
The Santa Swim
- Awaiting dates (typically around the 23rd December) – Watch or join in as many people brave the freezing water to jump into Portal de la Pau harbour on Christmas Day. This fun event is known as the Copa Nadal de Natació, and Catalans have been following the festive tradition for more than 100 years.
The Nativity Scene
- The traditional Nativity scene is known as the “Pessebre” in Barcelona, and there are several displays across the city.
- Festivities start on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th when many visit the Pessebre in Plaça Sant Jaume.
Where to stay during Christmas in Barcelona
We have included hotels and apartments around the gay area that have good revues and keep you in the heart of all the fun:
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
The ME Hotel Barcelona
is our preferred hotel in the city.
For further information and advice on
Barcelona Christmas Markets, Website
The gay district of Barcelona is located in the city’s Eixample district, known locally as “Gaixample”. Here you will find most of the gay bars, clubs and restaurants. It is quite compact and easy to navigate. There are also lots of hotels and apartments available in this area.
Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 651, 08010 Barcelona
Address: Gran Vía de las Cortes Catalanas 559, 08011 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Bergara, 11, 08002 Barcelona
Address: Carrer d’Aribau 54, 08011 Barcelona
Address: Carrer d’Aribau 33, 08011 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Casanova 64, 08011 Barcelona
Address: C/ del Parlament, 12, L'Eixample, 08015 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Balmes, 56, 08011 Barcelona
Address: C/ de la Diputació, 203, 08011 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de la Diputació, 167, 08011 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Calàbria, 96, 08015 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de la Diputació, 174, 08011 Barcelona
Address: Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 586, 08011 Barcelona
Address: C. del Consell de Cent, 257, 08011 Barcelona
Address: C/ de Montserrat, 9, 08001 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Villarroel 86, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: C/ Consell de Cent 275, 08011 Barcelona (Eixample)
Address: Carrer d'Aribau, 40, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: Carrer de Muntaner, 73, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: C/ d'Aribau, 46, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: Carrer de les Carretes, 57, Ciutat Vella, 08001 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Muntaner, 67, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: C/ de Salvà, 3, 08004 Barcelona
Address: C/ del Consell de Cent, 245 bis, L'Eixample, 08011 Barcelona
Address: Carrer de Muntaner, 34, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: 104, Avinguda del Paral·lel, Superilla Sant Antoni, Eixample,
Address: Rambla del Raval, 22, 08001 Barcelona, Spain
Address: Carrer d'Aribau, 55, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: Carrer de Muntaner, 11, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
Address: C/ d'Elkano, 69, Sants-Montjuïc, 08004 Barcelona
C. del Consell de Cent, 273, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
• Popular gay bar in the Eixample quarter.
• Features camp decorations, a street terrace, and tapas.
Daily 11:00/12:00 – 02:30/03:30
C/ de Sepúlveda, 178, L'Eixample, 08011 Barcelona
• Trendy music video bar with a dancefloor
• Best vibes after 1:00 AM
• Attracts a lively crowd of 20s and 30s
• Lots of pretty guys
• Check out their Instagram for more
Friday, Saturday 23: 00 – 03: 00
Carrer de la Diputació, 161, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
• Gay bar in the Eixample district.
• Popular during summer, especially Thursday-Saturday around 23:00-01:00.
• Mixed ages.
• Features a small cruise area with a few cubicles at the back.
Daily 18:00 – 02:30; Friday, Saturday till 03:00
Carrer d’Aribau 33, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
• Located on the rooftop terrace of the gay hotel Axel.
• Lounge bar with a view of the Eixample quarter.
• Open to the public in the evening.
Daily 20:00/21:00 onwards
C. de Villarroel, 68, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
• LGBT bar with daily drag shows (free entry).
Daily 18:00 – 02:30/03:00
Av. de Roma, 155, L'Eixample, 08011 Barcelona
• New gay lounge bar for bears, daddies, chasers, and friends.
Daily 18:00 – 02:30/03:00
C. de Villarroel, 60, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
• Gay bar with Caribbean-inspired interior and decoration.
• Small dance floor with South American-influenced music.
• Clientele mainly in their 20s and 30s.
Daily 17:00 – 02:30; Friday, Saturday till 03:00
C/ de Muntaner, 34 Bis, L'Eixample, 08011 Barcelona
• Small wine and cocktail bar decorated with references to the movie Titanic
Tuesday-Thursday 18:00–02:30/03:00; Friday, Saturday 18:00–03:30; Sunday 18:00 – 02:30/03:00
C/ del Consell de Cent, 319, L'Eixample, 08007 Barcelona
• LGBT-friendly cocktail bar close to Passeig de Gràcia.
Tuesday-Thursday 18:00 – 02:00; Friday, Saturday 18:00 – 03:00; Sunday 18:00 – 24:00
Passatge de Prunera, 18, 08004 Barcelona, Spain
• Fetish-friendly gay cruise club in the Poble-sec quarter.
• Moderate prices with the most popular day being the 1st Sunday of the month (18:30~ 02:30).
• Admission: 12 €, incl. 1 drink (15-18 € at special events).
Tuesday-Thursday 22:00 – 02:30/03:00; Friday, Saturday 22:00 – 03:00/03:30; Sunday 21:30 – 01:30/02:00
Carrer De La Diputació 182, 08011 Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
• Gay cruise club with bar, lockers, cubicles, slings and more.
• Admission: 10-15 €, incl. 1 drink.
Monday-Friday 12:00 – 23:00; Saturday, Sunday 15:00 – 24:00
Carrer de Balmes, 65, Bajos 2 08007, Barcelona
• Gay cruising club at the edge of the Gayxample quarter.
• Very bears-friendly with themed parties.
Monday-Friday 12:00 – 23:00; Saturday, Sunday 15:00 – 24:00
C/ d'Aragó, 130, 08015 Barcelona, Spain
• Large gay cruising club across two floors with clientele aged 30+.
• Dress code includes naked, underwear, fetish.
• Admission: 22 €, incl. locker and 1 drink (entrance fee cash only). Registration required.
C/ de Lluís el Piadós, 4, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona
• New location of the former Black Hole opened in June 2022.
• Features a cash desk and lockers on the ground floor, small bar and big cruising area
with slings, gloryholes, wet area etc.
• Mainly middle-aged and mature men.
• Admission: 16 €, incl. locker and 1 drink (entrance fee cash only).
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday from 17:00 – 23:00
Carrer de Calàbria, 91, 08015 Barcelona, Spain
• Small fetish-oriented gay sex club.
• Check the website for weekly program and dress codes.
• Admission: 10-15 €.
Friday, Saturday from 22:00 – 05:00; Sunday from 19:00 – 02:00
19-21, Ronda de Sant Pere, la Dreta de l'Eixample, la Salut, Barcelona
• Large Gay Club by Grupo Arena for gays and friends in the center of Barcelona. • 2 dancefloors: Pop, Charts, Commercial remixes, House.
See website for events and opening times
C. de Balmes, 52, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
• Queer Bar & Terrace for everyone in the heart of the LGTBIQ+ center of Barcelona.
Daily 8pm till 3am
Rambla de Catalunya, 4, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
• Vibrant Sunday night gay dance & cruise event with DJs, lighting effects, a dark room & a terrace.
Sunday 11pm till 5am
Carrer de Muntaner, 65, 08011 Barcelona, Spain
• Relaxed gay bar, perfect for a chat with friends.
Tuesday to Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 2:30/3:00 a.m.
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Barcelona that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars
Promotional video for Christmas in Barcelona
Barcelona is known for its diverse and vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and there are several popular gay neighbourhoods that offer exciting experiences. Here are five of the most well-known gay neighbourhoods, each with its own unique charm and attractions
Raval has a bohemian atmosphere with an alternative gay scene and is home to Barcelona’s Museum of Contemporary Art.
The gothic quarter offers a mix of historic charm, trendy shops, and an inclusive atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Budapest Christmas Markets