On our walk back to the hotel after an amazing day of visiting three countries, we literally ran into the Barcelona Christmas market extravaganza. It was everything you think of when you envision a European Christmas market. The Barcelona Christmas Market, or Fira de Santa Llúcia, is a holiday tradition that has taken place since 1786, drawing locals and visitors alike to its festive stalls near the Barcelona Cathedral. This enchanting market, held from late November to December 23rd, is known for its wide array of handcrafted decorations, nativity scene figures, and seasonal treats. On our tour, our guide told us about a unique tradition which is followed only in Catala – the Caga Tió (or “pooping log”), a traditional Catalan Christmas ornament. This smiling log, adorned with a red hat and blanket, is part of a playful custom where children “feed” it leading up to Christmas Eve, when they joyfully tap it with sticks to reveal small gifts and sweets hidden inside. The market beautifully captures the spirit of Catalonia’s holiday traditions. Well, of course we had to have one for our Christmas ornament collection from our travels around the world. Bet you don’t have one!
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