Costa Dorada is full of magic at Christmas, offering a perfect combination of tradition, activities for all ages and the chance to enjoy the festive spirit in a unique setting. This region not only stands out for its coastal beauty, but also for the way it celebrates the festive season with a diverse offer ranging from family initiatives to sporting and cultural activities. Here, Christmas is lived with intensity and creativity, encouraging togetherness and collective enjoyment.
Among the most deeply-rooted traditions is the Secret Santa exchange, a fun gesture that encourages surprise and affection among friends and family. For the little ones, writing a letter to Santa Claus is a magical moment, which can take place at special events on Costa Daurada, where activities are even organised to deliver the letters personally. In addition, children’s playgrounds are transformed into themed spaces where children can enjoy workshops and games specially designed for this time of year. Sport also features prominently in the Catalan Christmas season, with events such as races and tournaments bringing together locals and visitors.
From Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Port, Reus Airport, Girona Airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station, you can get to Tarragona, Salou, Cambrils, Vila-seca and Reus with Shuttle2Sun‘s low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services.
Secret Santa, a deep-rooted tradition in Catalonia
Secret Santa is a tradition that has transcended borders and has become an integral part of Christmas celebrations in Catalonia, combining the spirit of generosity with fun. Its origins go back to similar practices in communities in different parts of the world, and it has been adapted in Catalonia as a way of sharing gifts in an inexpensive and surprising way. The activity fosters creativity and social ties, especially at family gatherings, work meetings and among friends.
In Tarragona, this tradition is celebrated with a special space on the Rambla Nova, designed to encourage young and old to take part in creative workshops and activities related to Secret Santa. Until the 24th of December, this neuralgic point becomes a Christmas stage where you can enjoy the festive atmosphere, make personalised gifts, and learn about original ways of delivering surprises. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit, creating unforgettable memories.
The “Tió de Nadal”
The “Tió de Nadal”, one of the most endearing traditions of the Catalan Christmas, plays a prominent role in the celebrations on Costa Daurada. This magical log, decorated with a smile and a hat, ‘shits’ presents and sweets after being beaten with sticks by the little ones while they sing traditional songs.
In many towns on Costa Dorada, such as Tarragona, Cambrils and other towns, activities are organised where children can take part in this tradition. Many local squares are filled with Christmas cheer with the arrival of the Tió, becoming the centre of lively family parties. These celebrations allow visitors and residents to get to know and enjoy a custom deeply rooted in Catalan culture, ideal for creating unforgettable memories during the festive season.
Shuttle2Sun offers its shared transfer services and private transfer services, low-cost and sustainable, so you can get to Tarragona, Reus, Cambrils, Salou and Vila-seca, among other locations, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
Endless fun for the little ones
During Christmas, the towns and villages of Costa Daurada are filled with activities designed for the little ones to make the most of their school holidays. These days off are the perfect opportunity for children to take part in workshops, Christmas parks and other proposals designed to spend time with family and friends in a festive atmosphere.
In Tarragona, children can take part in unique workshops such as the creation of Roman lamps, Christmas huts, murals, African braids and biscuit decorating. In addition, there is the Christmas Park, where creative and playful activities are organised, and an exciting Escape Room for the more adventurous. Reus also offers face painting and children’s workshops that transform the squares into a space of colour and fun.
In Cambrils, from the 21st of December to the 5th of January, the squares are filled with inflatables and trampolines, while the Municipal Sports Pavilion organises sports and leisure activities for children over the age of 3. Finally, in Salou, the little ones can enjoy the Christmas Park and workshops at the ‘Estació del Carrilet’ Children’s Space, ideal for stimulating their creativity and sharing special moments at this time of year. These proposals make Costa Dorada a magical destination for an unforgettable Christmas with the family.
Sport in idyllic surroundings
Christmas on Costa Dorada is not only synonymous with lights and carols, but also with exciting sporting activities that bring together residents and visitors in a festive and healthy atmosphere. Among the most outstanding options is the Saint Stephen Race in Salou on 26th of December. Starting from the Plaça de les Comunitats Autònomes, participants enjoy a route along the coastline, combining sport with spectacular views.
On 31st of December, two cities bid farewell to the year with the traditional Sant Silvestre races. In Tarragona, the urban route is perfect for saying goodbye to the year among friends and family. In Reus, the race starts from Avinguda Sant Jordi, offering a sporty and fun option before the New Year’s Eve celebrations.
For thrill-seekers, the San Silvestre swim is an unmissable tradition. In La Pineda, at midday, from the Pinar de Perruquet Park, brave swimmers dive into the sea to welcome the new year in a refreshing and unique way.
Don’t think twice and dive into the Catalan traditions of Costa Dorada! Remember that Shuttle2Sun offers its shared transfer services and private transfer services, low-cost and sustainable, so you can arrive to Tarragona, Reus, Cambrils, Salou and Vila-seca, among other locations, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
