Things to Do in Girona Over Christmas and New Year

Girona feels different in December. Lights twinkle around the Old Town, a market fills the square, and winter days move at a slower, cosier pace. Whether you stay at La Comuna or Vivaldi, the season brings events and traditions that make a festive break in Girona feel special and rooted in place.

Here is your guide to the best of Christmas and New Year in and around the city.

Living Nativity Scenes

Across the region you’ll find pessebres vivents — living nativity scenes that turn entire villages into open-air theatres. Streets become stages and locals perform scenes of daily life in biblical times. These are some of the most atmospheric:

• Castell d’Aro: 21, 25, 26, 27, 28 December 2025 and 1 January 2026

• Pals: 26 and 28 December 2025; 1 and 4 January 2026

• Bàscara: 21, 25–28 December 2025; 1, 3 and 4 January 2026

• Peralada: 25–28 December 2025 and 1 January 2026

Read more

Espinelves Christmas Market

The Fira de l’Avet d’Espinelves is one of Catalonia’s most beloved Christmas markets. It runs 6 – 14 December 2025 and is just under an hour away from Girona by car.

You’ll find local fir trees, crafts, ornaments, candles, cheeses, cured meats and warm drinks. It’s the perfect way to start the season and a great half-day trip for the whole family.

Christmas Lights in Girona

Girona switched on its Christmas lights on 29 November 2025 in Plaça Catalunya, with music, families, and the official lighting of the tree.

From now until early January, the Old Town glows every evening. The best places to wander:

• Rambla and Barri Vell

• Pont de Pedra

• The bridges crossing the Onyar

• Around the Cathedral and Jewish Quarter

You can also explore the Girona Christmas Market, running 28 November 2025 to 5 January 2026 in the city centre.

Peter Pan on Ice

A festive favourite. Peter Pan on Ice returns to La Copa, La Devesa from 26 December 2025 to 4 January 2026.

Expect ice skating, acrobatics and a full storyline — ideal for families and a good option on colder days. Find tickets here.

Circ de Nadal

The Great Christmas Circus of Girona takes place each year at the same venue, La Copa, La Devesa, between 25 and 30 December 2025.

International performers, orchestral music, trapeze, balancing acts and classic Christmas circus atmosphere. Within walking distance all Bon Dia Residences apartments. Tickets available here.

Lighting of the Christmas Star

One of Girona’s most charming traditions, the magician Naj-Mandin arrives to perform the Encesa de l’Estrella on Friday 2 January at 7pm, to light the way for the Three Wise Men. It’s short, symbolic and deeply local. Families gather on the Cathedral steps to watch.

Three Kings Parade

On the evening of 5 January 2026, Girona welcomes the Cavalcada de Reis, the grand arrival of Melcior, Gaspar and Baltasar.

Floats, costumes, music and sweets fill the streets. Route details appear closer to the date, but it traditionally moves through the Old Town and into the centre. This is one of the most joyful nights of the season for children. Keep an eye on the agenda here.

Walk the City Walls in Winter Light

Cool temperatures make the Passeig de la Muralla one of the most rewarding winter walks in Girona. Clear afternoons carry views across the Cathedral, Sant Feliu, the tiled rooftops and towards the Pyrenees.

For guests at La Comuna and Vivaldi, it’s an easy pre-dinner activity with incredible sunset light.

Churros and Hot Chocolate

Girona does hot chocolate well — thick, rich and made for winter. You’ll find several cafés serving fresh churros and chocolate throughout December, especially in the Old Town and around the Rambla. It’s the perfect warm-up between sightseeing stops.

Ice Rink at Fontajau / Palau de Fires

The seasonal ice rink at Palau de Fires de Girona is set to operate 20 December 2025 to 4 January 2026.

Families often combine it with the Christmas Market or a walk through La Devesa. Check updated hours and prices here.

Poteri Christmas Workshops

For something creative and calm, Poteri offers Christmas ceramic workshops in Girona.

22 December | 10:00 and 12:00

DECORACIONS NADALENQUES

A Christmas decoration painting workshop with no kiln firing. You paint, finish, and take your pieces home the same day. Book here.

15 December – 1 January

Enjoy a free hot chocolate while you paint a mug or small piece.Perfect for a slow morning or relaxed afternoon activity. Book here.

Winter Hikes Near Girona

Winter brings clear air and quiet trails. Top options close to the city:

• Els Àngels: the classic Girona climb

• Sant Miquel: gentle forest path with city views

• The Gavarres: wide tracks, good for longer walks

Bring layers, enjoy the silence, and return to the city for a warm drink.

Cycling Routes for the Colder Season

Cyclists love Girona year-round. Cooler weather makes winter ideal for steady rides:

• Vall del Llémena: rolling terrain and quiet roads

• Sant Grau: a rewarding climb with coastal glimpses

• Banyoles Loop: lake views and gentle gradients

If you stay at La Comuna, the café downstairs is a natural pre-ride stop.

New Year’s Eve in Girona

Catalonia marks midnight with 12 grapes, one eaten at each chime of the clock. Restaurants in Barri Vell often offer set menus for New Year’s Eve, with bookings required well in advance. Try some of our favourites, or, once you've booked your stay we'll happily make a reservation for you.

For a relaxed evening: Walk the Old Town, enjoy a long dinner and ring in the year quietly before returning to your apartment.

Plan Your Festive Stay

Christmas and New Year bring Girona to life in a warm and unhurried way.From markets and lights to workshops and winter walks, the season suits families, couples and solo travellers who want a slower, more atmospheric escape.

Both La Comuna and Vivaldi place you in the heart of Girona’s historic centre, close to every event listed above. Book to stay in December and your breakfast will be included on us, or book ahead for January and get 10% off.