Step into the Christmas Market / A Journey Through Time
When you think of Christmas markets, you might imagine the aroma of mulled wine, the coziness of gingerbread houses, and snowy landscapes of Northern or Central Europe. But in Catalonia, Spain, you’ll find sunshine, warmth, and a medieval-themed extravaganza. The bustling crowds remind you of Lunar New Year temple fairs, but here, people carry Spanish almond nougat instead of festive couplets.
In Vic, near Barcelona, a medieval drama unfolds yearly during the Christmas market. Vendors dress as blacksmiths, weavers, and tavern owners, staying in character and speaking in medieval-style language.
“Señorita, this handmade scarf costs only 3 gold coins!” Wait… can I pay in euros? 
Stalls are designed to replicate medieval styles, built with wood and cloth, adorned with handmade crafts. Vendors introduce products in an old-fashioned way, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Eat and Drink / The Happier You Eat, the Happier You Feel
Desserts
Desserts are the stars of Christmas markets. In Catalonia, churros with hot chocolate (Churros con Chocolate) are a must-try. The hot chocolate is thick and velvety, often flavored with cinnamon, orange peel, or vanilla.
Churros are fried until golden and crispy, dusted with powdered sugar. Creative versions are filled with chocolate sauce, cream, or pistachio paste, coated in chocolate, and sprinkled with nuts or sugar pearls.
Another star is Turrón, a traditional candy made with almonds, honey, and egg whites. It comes in hard and soft versions, each offering a unique texture and flavor.
Grilled Calçots
Grilled calçots (Calcots) are a unique delicacy. These vegetables, a cross between onions and leeks, are grilled until charred, revealing sweet, juicy shoots. They’re dipped in Romesco sauce, a blend of roasted red peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and almonds.
The first time I saw people lining up for grilled calçots, I felt a sudden connection to Shandong’s green onions. It made me realize the universal charm of green onions.
Canned and Preserved Foods
Canned foods are a staple in Catalan markets. Spain is a pioneer of modern canning technology.
Anchovies in brine (Anchoas en Salazón) are salted and soaked in olive oil, offering a salty, delicate flavor. Marinated olives (Aceitunas Marinadas) are plump and juicy, infused with herbs, chili, and lemon peel.
These foods preserve the unique flavors of the Mediterranean and are often paired with cheese and bread for tastings.
Sausages
Sausages are another highlight. Fuet and Longaniza are popular cured sausages. Fuet highlights the meat’s natural aroma, while Longaniza is spiced for a robust taste. Vendors often slice them on the spot for sampling.
Drinks
Instead of mulled wine, Catalonia offers mead (Hidromiel) and sangria (Sangría). Mead, made from fermented honey, is sweet and tangy. Sangria, a mix of red wine, orange juice, and fruit slices, is refreshing but deceptively strong.
More Than Just Food / When Medieval Meets Modern
The Caganer and Caga Tió
Catalan Christmas traditions include the Caganer (the “pooping man”) and Caga Tió (the “pooping log”). The Caganer symbolizes fertility and abundance, while the Caga Tió is a magical log that “poops” candies and gifts.
Interactive Fun and Street Performances
Beyond food, the markets offer interactive fun. Try archery (tiro con arco) or pottery-making (alfarería). Kids can weave ornaments or make candles.
Street performances add energy. You might even join a “rehearsal” of a medieval wedding.
Conclusion
Catalan Christmas markets are a magical adventure. From the laughable Caganer to the soul-stirring grilled calçots, and from the enchanting mead to the delightful sangria, this is more than a market—it’s a feast for your taste buds and soul.
