Happen to find yourself in the great city of Barcelona for the holidays? You may not know this but this is one of the best places to spend Christmas in and here are a few reasons why.

1. Fira de Santa Llúcia

This is one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas fairs in the world. It is the perfect place to walk around and get into the Christmas spirit, as well as the ideal spot to get all of Christmas decorations and supplies.

2. Caganers

In Catalonia, a “Caganer” is placed in the nativity scene, present at the birth of Jesus. This figurine is of a man squatting and pooping on the ground. All kinds of public figures are made into caganers and are sold at Christmas fairs.

3. Caga Tió

Continuing with the pooping tradition, the Caga Tió is another Christmas tradition, in which people get a log of wood with a face, feed it for weeks, and on Christmas hit it with a stick until it poops presents. I guess when described it sounds very weird, but there is nothing more Christmassy in Catalonia than the Caga Tió.

4. Pessebres all over the city

Pessebres are nativity scenes, and they are located all around the city, as well as in most people’s houses. It is tradition to put up a nativity scene as well as a Christmas tree.

5. La Marató de TV3

La Marató de TV3 is a fundraiser held by TV3, the main TV channel in Catalonia. The fundraiser is for a different disease each year and during the entire month of December there are events held all around Catalonia to raise money. It is wonderful to see people coming together for a great cause.

6. Christmas lights

Barcelona looks absolutely stunning during the Christmas season, with beautiful lights all over the city.

7. Turrón

The famous Spanish Christmas sweet is something everyone must try. There are so many different kinds, there is something for everyone.

8. Warm weather

This is not Hawaii, but you definitely won’t be freezing or dealing with snow on Christmas. Weather is not an issue and won’t intervene in your enjoyment of the holiday.