Blog

January is a great time to experience Barcelona at a more relaxed pace, without missing out on a full cultural agenda. Concerts, traditional celebrations and major international events set the tone for the start of the year in the city. Below, you will find a curated selection of the top events taking place in January, with all the practical details you need to plan your visit.

New Year’s Concerts at the Palau de la Música Catalana

1 January

Starting the year at the Palau de la Música Catalana is one of the most special cultural experiences Barcelona has to offer. The New Year’s Concerts bring together classical pieces performed by renowned orchestras and soloists, all set in an elegant and festive atmosphere.

The building itself, a jewel of Catalan Modernism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an essential part of the experience. Its stained glass windows, mosaics and outstanding acoustics turn every concert into a truly memorable moment, both for classical music lovers and for those looking for a different way to start the year.

Location: Palau de la Música Catalana
How to get there: Urquinaona metro station (L1, L4) or Arc de Triomf (L1)

Three Kings Parade

5 January

The evening of 5 January is one of the most eagerly awaited moments of the year in Barcelona. The Three Kings Parade turns the city centre into a huge open air spectacle, with floats, music, lights and colourful characters filling the streets with excitement and festive spirit.

The parade traditionally begins with the arrival of the Three Kings at Port Vell and continues along several of the city’s main avenues. It is a celebration deeply rooted in local culture and a must see plan for families visiting the city.

Location: Barcelona city centre (starting point at Port Vell)
How to get there: Barceloneta metro station (L4) or Drassanes (L3)

Three Kings’ Day

6 January

Three Kings’ Day is one of the most important winter celebrations in Barcelona. It is a day centred around family time, gift giving and the traditional Roscón de Reyes, which takes centre stage in pastry shop windows and family gatherings.

The city takes on a slower pace, with many shops closed and the streets filled with a calm and festive atmosphere. For visitors, it is a great opportunity to experience a much loved local tradition and enjoy Barcelona at a relaxed rhythm.

Location: Barcelona
How to get there: Regular public transport (holiday services)

Stay Alive Fest at Sala Apolo

8 January

The Stay Alive Fest is a must for anyone who enjoys discovering new sounds. Held at the iconic Sala Apolo, the festival brings together emerging artists from the indie and alternative scene in an intimate and energetic setting.

Its young crowd and fresh line up make it a great option to kick off the year with live music, away from large scale and overcrowded events.

Location: Sala Apolo
How to get there: Paral·lel metro station (L2, L3)

Rusowsky at Sant Jordi Club

15 January

Rusowsky arrives in Barcelona with a live show that blends electronic music, alternative pop and a carefully crafted visual concept. His concert at the Sant Jordi Club is one of the most talked about events of the month, especially among younger audiences.

The Sant Jordi Club offers a comfortable indoor setting, ideal for enjoying concerts during the winter months, with good transport connections from the city centre.

Location: Sant Jordi Club
How to get there: Plaça Espanya metro station (L1, L3) plus shuttle bus

Fito & Fitipaldis at Palau Sant Jordi

16 and 17 January

Fito & Fitipaldis return to Barcelona to perform two back to back concerts at the Palau Sant Jordi. Two nights of Spanish rock, featuring a setlist that blends well known classics with more recent songs.

It is one of the most powerful live music events of the month, designed to be enjoyed as a full scale show at one of the city’s most important venues.

Location: Palau Sant Jordi
How to get there: Plaça Espanya metro station (L1, L3) plus shuttle bus

Els Tres Tombs in Sant Antoni

17 January

Els Tres Tombs is one of Barcelona’s oldest traditional celebrations. Held in honour of Saint Anthony the Abbot, the patron saint of animals, the parade features horses and horse drawn carriages making their way through the streets in a display full of symbolism and tradition.

The Sant Antoni neighbourhood comes alive with a warm and family friendly atmosphere that connects today’s city with its rural and artisan past.

Location: Sant Antoni and Sant Andreu neighbourhoods
How to get there: Sant Antoni metro station (L2)

Quimi Portet at Sala Apolo

18 January

Quimi Portet performs an intimate concert at Sala Apolo, where his distinctive style, sharp irony and Catalan lyrics take centre stage. It is an ideal choice for those looking for a close up live music experience deeply connected to the local scene.

The limited capacity and relaxed atmosphere make this concert a great opportunity to enjoy music with a strong sense of identity.

Location: Sala Apolo
How to get there: Paral·lel metro station (L2, L3)

ICE Barcelona 2026

From 19 to 21 January

ICE Barcelona is one of the most important international events in the gaming and innovation sector. Over three days, Barcelona welcomes thousands of professionals from the technology, iGaming and regulatory industries.

The event takes place at Fira Barcelona Gran Via and, although it is aimed exclusively at professionals, it has a noticeable impact on the city, particularly in hotel occupancy and the international atmosphere.

Location: Fira Barcelona Gran Via
How to get there: Fira metro station (L9 Sud)

There is no doubt that January in Barcelona is packed with plans worth experiencing. Concerts, traditions and unique events fill the start of the year with culture and great moments. It is the perfect time to try something new, see the city from a different perspective and enjoy quality time with those around you. Start the year by making the most of everything Barcelona has to offer.