Port Vell Christmas Fair has officially opened its seventh edition with a spectacular launch event featuring the historic Circo Raluy.
The festive season has arrived at Barcelona’s waterfront, with the ‘Nadal al Port’ event now occupying a record 24,000 square metres of space.
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This expansion offers visitors more room than ever to enjoy seasonal activities with the Mediterranean as a backdrop.
Hundreds gathered on Friday evening for the inauguration, which began at 6:30pm with the circus troupe’s ‘Terra’ show. The performance, filled with breathtaking acrobatics and magic, captivated families despite the evening chill. Children watched with particular delight as performers executed daring feats against the dramatic harbour setting.
Port Vell Christmas Fair Expands With New Activities
The fair’s significant expansion adds 8,400 square metres, stretching further along the Moll de les Drassanes. Consequently, visitors can now explore recently opened public spaces with greater comfort. Following the circus performance, the official lighting ceremony transformed the area into a festive wonderland.
Children of port workers had the honour of pressing the button that illuminated the entire zone. Thousands of custom-designed LED lights immediately bathed the area in red, covering more than 90 trees from Portal de la Pau to the Barceloneta docks. The iconic 65-metre Ferris wheel on Moll de la Fusta became a central feature of the sparkling display.
Visitors enthusiastically captured the moment, with the changing coloured lights and accompanying music creating spontaneous photo opportunities. Meanwhile, wooden stalls offered everything from churros and waffles to handmade scarves and jewellery. The atmosphere remained lively as families, couples and friends explored the expanded layout.
The Jaume I tower will continue serving as the port’s unique Christmas tree with daily light shows. Furthermore, the historic Las Golondrinas boats will offer their first-ever themed night tours during the fair’s run. These nautical excursions will feature special lighting and music throughout their 137-year history.
The fair remains open until 6th January with a completely renewed programme. Key new activities include free sailing baptisms organised by the Barcelona Capital Nàutica Foundation with local maritime clubs. Additionally, Salvament Marítim will dock one of its rescue vessels at Moll de les Drassanes for free public visits.
Historical boats from the Maritime Museum, including the pailebote Santa Eulàlia and Far Barcelona, will also welcome visitors. Children can even post letters to a real onboard mailbox. The Open Arms humanitarian ship returns too, offering awareness activities about its Mediterranean missions. This expansion follows other major urban developments, including the ongoing transformation of La Rambla.
According to El Periódico, the event has become a Christmas classic that attracts growing numbers each year. The maritime container archway at the Rambla confluence now welcomes visitors to this larger-than-ever Port Vell Christmas Fair. The city’s festive calendar continues to expand, much like the extensive programming for La Mercè earlier this season.
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