Barcelona, European Capital of Christmas 2026

The Catalan capital has been chosen in the category for cities with a population of more than 100,000 inhabitants. The award will be given on 13 December in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, the current capital.

Barcelona’s candidacy highlighted a Christmas celebration combining traditions with our city’s innovative and creative spirit. The award also praises sustainability initiatives such as fairs and the collection of Christmas trees and other vegetal decorations after the festive season.

As part of the programme of activities and events open to the public to be developed for the city’s capital role next year, the city has announced its aim to add more streets with signature lighting.