Each year, the switch-on of the Christmas lights marks the start of the festive season in a different part of Barcelona. As evening falls, the city turns into a striking spectacle, with dance, choirs and live performances accompanying the glow of the lights. Streets such as Passeig de Gràcia and Carrer d’Aragó are dressed in thousands of twinkling lights, creating a distinctive atmosphere. The switch-on itself is a shared moment that brings locals and visitors together in the Christmas spirit.
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Barcelona stands out for not relying only on traditional lightbulbs. Its main streets feature “designer lighting” created by architecture and design studios.
Once switched on, the lights stay on until 6 January (Three Kings’ Day).
If you want to take in the highlights in one evening, follow this route: Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes and Carrer d’Aragó. This is where the most striking installations are found.
