October arrives in Barcelona with a special atmosphere. Autumn takes over the streets, markets fill with seasonal flavors, and the city combines the best of its traditions with the fun of more modern celebrations. Among them are La Castanyada, a deeply rooted Catalan festivity, and Halloween, increasingly popular across the city.
La Castanyada: tradition and flavor
La Castanyada is a popular festival of pagan origin, celebrated on the night of October 31st, linked to ancient harvest rituals and the arrival of autumn. Over time, it became associated with the Christian celebration of All Saints’ Day, which takes place on November 1st.
During La Castanyada, the seasonal flavors take center stage:
-
Roasted chestnuts, filling the streets with their characteristic aroma from the traditional street vendors.
-
Panellets, almond and pine nut sweets that are a must on every table.
-
Baked sweet potatoes, another delicious seasonal treat.
Experiencing La Castanyada in Barcelona is a great way to connect with the city’s authentic essence and discover part of its gastronomic culture.
Halloween in Barcelona: fun for everyone
On the same night of October 31st, Barcelona also dresses in orange and black to celebrate Halloween. Every year, more clubs, bars, and venues decorate with spooky themes and host special parties.
There are also activities for all ages:
-
Pumpkin carving workshops and children’s activities in cultural centers.
-
Special Halloween celebrations at amusement parks like Tibidabo and PortAventura.
-
Night tours and mysterious experiences for those seeking something different.
October plans not to miss
Beyond these festivities, October is also perfect for enjoying the city at a slower pace. Some ideas include:
-
Tasting panellets in a traditional Barcelona pastry shop.
-
Strolling through the streets filled with chestnut and sweet potato stands.
-
Ending the day with a dinner at the restaurants of Madanis Hotels, where you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and seasonal gastronomy.
Experience October with Madanis Hotels
Whether you’re embracing the tradition of La Castanyada, celebrating Halloween with friends, or simply soaking in the autumn atmosphere of the city, October in Barcelona offers unique experiences. At Madanis Hotels, we’re ready to welcome you so you can combine the charm of the city with the comfort of our hotels.
