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Living nativity scenes (pessebre vivent in Catalan) are one of the most typical Christmas traditions in Catalonia. When Christmas comes around, many towns and cities host living nativities: human representations of the birth of Jesus. From charming little towns to natural spaces that seem straight out of a Christmas postcard, and even medieval monasteries, here are the living nativities you shouldn't miss to enjoy an authentic and local Christmas experience.
Living nativity of Corbera de Llobregat (Baix Llobregat)
December 6th, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th, 2024
January 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 11th, 2025
We start our journey with the living nativity of Corbera de Llobregat, probably the most famous in Catalonia. Located in a natural setting, this nativity scene, ideal for those who want to experience a Catalan classic, is known for its spectacular staging and the participation of nearly 200 actors. With its biblical scenes and recreations of traditional crafts, it is almost like traveling back in time. A tip? Buy tickets in advance, or you might miss it.
Living nativity of Castell d'Aro (Baix Empordà)
December 21st, 22nd, 25th, 26th and 29th, 2024
January 1st, 2025
The nativity scene in Castell d'Aro, in the Baix Empordà, is another must-see.. Not only was it the first living nativity scene performed in Catalonia in 1959, but it also received the Creu de Sant Jordi award in 2011. For over 60 years, the ruins of Benedormiens Castle have served as the starting point of an impressive display that spans the old town and the Coma neighborhood. You'll find up to 400 participants and 60 different scenes. Children will be delighted.
Living nativity of Prullans (Cerdanya)
December 6th and 7th, 2024
If you're in the mood for a getaway to the Pyrenees and want to enjoy a nativity scene in an idyllic setting, the living nativity of Prullans is a fantastic option. Located in the heart of Cerdanya, it takes place in the streets of the old town and uses barns, threshing areas, and private homes. Over a 100 people participate and you will find many familiar scenes, such as the Annunciation, the shepherds by the fire, or the caganer, among many others. A great plan to combine nature and Christmas tradition.
Living nativity of Sant Guim de la Plana (Segarra)
December 21st, 22nd, 26th, 28th and 29th, 2024
January 4th, 11th and 12th, 2025
The nativity in Sant Guim de la Plana, in Segarra, is a peculiar living nativity scene. Since 1982, it has been dedicated to lost crafts, and for years, a remarkable job of research and recovery of tools has been conducted. In fact, it was declared of Touristic Interest by the Generalitat de Catalunya in 2002. You will find around 300 participants and more than 34 different scenes.
Living nativity of Els Prats de Rei (Anoia)
December 22nd, 26th and 29th, 2024
January 1st and 6th, 2025
It is the only living nativity in Catalonia that features an original soundtrack. It is a theatrical nativity scene, made up of different stages that create a circuit through the entire old town. You will find traditional scenes and recreations of daily life performed by almost the entire village. If you want to see a different living nativity, do not hesitate and head to Els Prats de Rei.
Living nativity in Món Sant Benet (Bages)
December 26th, 28th and 29th, 2024
January 1st, 2025
The one at Món Sant Benet, in Sant Fruitós de Bages, is the only nativity in all of Catalonia that takes place inside a medieval monastery. It is also notable for its spectacular audiovisual effects. The various corners of the monastery are transformed to host the recreation of traditional nativity scenes, as well as other less typical scenes representative of a monastery and a medieval village, such as the depiction of ancient crafts. Additionally, at the end of the tour, there is an open and participative workshop of medieval dances. The artistic direction is led by actress Tàtels Pérez.
Living nativity in Joanetes (Garrotxa)
December 25th, 2024 at 7pm
December 26th, 28th and 29th, 2025 at 6pm
We move from the only living nativity scene set in a monastery to the living nativity scene featuring the largest star in the world: Joanetes. A small village in Garrotxa that, a few years ago, was entered into the Guinness Book of Records because, at the summit of Santa Magdalena, they install a giant star that illuminates the entire Vall d'en Bas. It is a spectacle involving around 400 volunteers who recreate about 40 different scenes and crafts.
Living nativity in l'Espluga de Francolí (Conca de Barberà)
December 26th, 27th and 28th, 2024
The living nativity scene in l'Espluga de Francolí is a biennial event, taking place every two years. It has been performed since 1964 in the historic medieval centre with an immersive, emotional and sensory journey through the origins of Christmas with an audio guide and a high degree of biblical and historical rigour.
Living nativity in Les Gunyoles d'Avinyonet (Alt Penedès)
December 22nd, 25th, 26th, 28th and 29th, 2024
January 1st, 2025
The residents of Les Gunyoles d'Avinyonet were clear: they wanted to innovate and make the most of their natural surroundings. Thus, in 1976, they transitioned from performing Els Pastorets (The Shepherds) of Folch i Torres (A Traditional Theatrical Performance of the Christmas Holidays) to hosting a spoken living nativity set in the incomparable setting of the Sierra de Les Gunyoles, which year after year hosts one of the most unique living nativities in Catalonia. A true journey back in time.
If you're a fan of living nativity scenes and are eager to discover other living nativities located in charming towns, do not miss the article where we talk about the best living nativities in Girona and the Costa Brava.