We are arriving in Spain on New Years Eve and are also going to be there for Epiphany (Jan. 6). I'm curious if we should expect grocery stores, restaurants or major sites to be closed New Years Day and Epiphany day.
Thanks for any insights.
Posted by
Surrey, UK
432 posts
Jan 6 is more significant than Christmas Day. On Jan 5 there will be parades everywhere. Jan 5 places will be open, Jan 6 not so much.
New year's Eve - big parties. If you are staying in a hotel - book a meal!
Posted by
OP
Port Townsend, WA
38 posts
I am curious about New Years Day. Anybody have insights on that?
Posted by
Barcelona (Catalonia)
3226 posts
In big cities in Catalonia, there are only three days during the year when things can be a bit tricky: December 25th and 26th and January 1st. While you'll always encounter a handful of places offering snacks or convenience stores, the rest will likely be closed. This does not apply to transportation, which works every day of the year, albeit with a lower frequency than on other days. Most tourist sites will be closed -with some exceptions opening half a day.
Btw, I don't know where LinC gets that Jan 6th is more "significant" than Xmas day... cause that's certainly not the case. Jan 6th is just one of the 12 days during the year which are sort of "bank holidays" here in Catalonia. Kind of a regular Sunday: most shops closed; restaurants are a mixed pot, some open, some closed; public transport functioning at reduced frequencies and tourist sites mostly open -at least half a day, if not the full day.
Ah, yes, If you happen to be in Barcelona on the evening of the 5th, it’s totally worth setting aside an hour or so to check out the Cavalgada de Reis parade (aka the Three Kings' Parade). It winds through some of the main streets in the city centre and draws over 750,000 people. Whether you’ve got kids or not, it’s a full-on light and art show — and it’s free! Just check the route and times, show up, and enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oS_FWtDcREg
PS: Goes without saying, but in such big crowds, it’s super important to keep an eye on your stuff — phones, backpacks, wallets, you name it.