Semana Santa is a week-long celebration that takes place in cities all over Spain, a celebration of the Holy Week leading up to Easter. It is regarded as one of the most important times of the religious calendar, this year running from April the 2nd- April the 8th. Thousands of people take part in processions of floats carrying religious statues, accompanied by marching bands and crowds lining the streets to get a glimpse.

Many Barcelona residents choose to head out of the city at Easter time, visiting nearby towns and villages and to visit family. Those that stay in Barcelona still have as much fun, enjoying Easter parades, activities, and of course, delicious food!

This year, things will be a little different, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the Semana Santa this year! The Health Minister has announced a plan of restrictions for the Easter period, that maximise the safety of those taking part. To find out what’s happening this Semana Santa and how you can enjoy it safely with your friends and family, here’s all you need to know…

What’s on?

If you’re planning to stay in Barcelona, get ready for a full schedule! There are activities for all ages:  markets, workshops, concerts, plays, exhibitions, and much more.

Museums and galleries

Barcelona is home to an excellent selection of museums and galleries, to learn about the history of this fantastic city, and to experience some of the greatest artwork in the world. They are a safe trip out for all the family, and on the Easter Sunday, are free to visit!

We recommend:

• Catalan National Museum of Art (MNAC)
• Barcelona Centre of Contemporary Culture (CCCB)
• Picasso Museum
• Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA)

Theatre

No more Netflix sat in bed, head out to the local theatres to enjoy one of the many new shows that are put on each month. Teatre Barcelona  shares all the upcoming large and small events being held in the city, here’s some of our top picks for over the Easter period:

• La Setmana dels Set Dissabtes

This is a children’s musical theatre play being held from the 11th of Feb- 25th Feb at the Sala Cincómonos. Full of magic and humour, it’s about a little girl who always wished it were Saturday (relatable!), it’s a fun one to get the kids involved in.

Make your own chocolate easter eggs

As a yearly tradition, the Chocolate Museum in El Born puts on various activities to celebrate Easter! There are workshops for children aged 6-12, as well as workshops where parents are welcome to get stuck into a chocolatey creation too. One of the best parts of Easter is all the chocolate eggs, so why not make and decorate your own special chocolate Easter egg as a family!

Find a hidden treasure at the Fleadonia

Barcelona’s flea market in the El Raval neighbourhood is a great way to spend a Sunday. Buy or sell second-hand items, such as clothes, accessories, books and music for reasonable prices. Their philosophy is “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”, and is a great, sustainable way to shop and find some fantastic items. There’s also places to stop for some live music and a glass of vermouth, so you can really make it a fun afternoon out with friends.

If you’re coming to Barcelona to visit family for the Semana Santa, AB Apartment Barcelona has many apartments available for you to book. Search our website to find the perfect apartment for you, and our team are available to help with any queries you may have. ¡Felices Pascuas!

The post Easter in Barcelona | How to safely enjoy Semana Santa 2023 first appeared on AB Blog.