Barcelona, November 13 – The Port Vell is abuzz with preparations for the highly anticipated ‘Nadal al Port 2025-2026’ festival, which is returning with its most expansive edition yet. Spanning an impressive 24,000 square meters, the event aims to solidify its position as Barcelona’s premier coastal Christmas gathering point.
A Festive Kick-off with Novelties
From November 28, 2025, to January 6, 2026, the Moll de la Fusta will be transformed into a winter wonderland, expecting to surpass previous attendance figures. The city is gearing up for an atmosphere that seamlessly blends tradition, dazzling lights, and engaging maritime-themed activities.
The Port de Barcelona has confirmed the festival dates, with the grand inauguration scheduled for Thursday, November 28, at 6:30 PM. The lighting ceremony will be led by the renowned Circ Històric Raluy, who will also present their captivating show, ‘Terra,’ marking the first major festive act of the season.
A More Sustainable, Inclusive, and Sea-Connected Edition
This year’s festival design boasts a striking 12-meter archway constructed from maritime containers and a luminous star installed at Portal de la Pau. This expansion extends the festive route all the way to the Moll de Drassanes. According to Port sources, the primary objective is to strengthen the connection between the city and the sea, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and social integration.
Among the returning highlights are the panoramic Ferris wheel and the ice rink, which this year is specifically designed for younger visitors. New additions include maritime culture workshops, live music featuring over 500 student performers, and the ‘Fira Sabors de Nadal’ located at the Muelle del Dipòsit. This comprehensive program will create a broader and more diverse festive circuit, invigorating the Port Vell for nearly six weeks.
Las Golondrinas and Free Sailing Baptisms Take Center Stage
For the first time in their 137-year history, the iconic ‘Golondrinas’ boats will offer enchanting night cruises complete with special lighting and music, promising to be one of the edition’s major attractions. The program also features free sailing baptisms, organized by the Fundació Barcelona Capital Nàutica. These experiences will depart from the royal stairs of the Moll de la Fusta on November 29 and 30, and December 5, 6, 7, 19, 20, and 21, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Both initiatives aim to attract new audiences and reinforce a festive model that highlights the port experience.
In addition to the classic Far Barcelona, which once again opens its doors to the public, this year will feature Salvamento Marítimo, allowing visitors to tour one of their vessels and learn firsthand about their vital work along the Catalan coast. Furthermore, the Pailebot Santa Eulàlia will once again host its popular royal mailbox, a beloved spot where children can drop off their letters before the arrival of the Three Kings.
Christmas Train and the Three Kings
The Portal de la Pau will be bathed in red light with a specially designed LED illumination for the fair, while the Jaume I tower will reclaim its role as the city’s most unique Christmas tree, offering a daily light show. The program also includes family activities, the FunBox inflatable park, new attractions such as Energy and l’Arbre de boles, and dozens of children’s workshops, all designed to energize the venue throughout the holidays.
The festivities will culminate, as is customary, with the ‘Tinglado Reial’ on January 3 and 4, where the logistics for the arrival of the Three Kings on January 5 will be organized. A free Christmas train will connect the main points of Port Vell, ensuring easy access throughout the entire fair.
The new edition of ‘Nadal al Port 2025-2026’ promises a revitalized return to Port Vell, solidifying its status as one of Barcelona’s most significant Christmas destinations. This highly anticipated fair will offer a wide array of activities for all ages and a program dedicated to enhancing the city’s maritime heritage, serving as a family meeting point and a showcase for port activities.
Source: https://www.elconfidencial.com/espana/cataluna/2025-11-13/nadal-al-port-2025-bautismo-gratis-1tna-1qrt_4246495/
