Planning a trip to Barcelona at the end of October? You’re arriving just in time for one of Catalonia’s most beloved autumn traditions: La Castanyada.
As October comes to an end, the streets of Barcelona fill with the smell of freshly roasted chestnuts, local bakeries display traditional panellets, and neighbourhoods come together to celebrate the season.
In 2026, La Castanyada takes place over the weekend of October 31 and November 1, making it the perfect opportunity to experience Barcelona’s local culture.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, arriving on a cruise or making the most of a few hours before your flight, here’s everything you need to know about La Castanyada in Barcelona, including where to find roasted chestnuts, what to eat and the best places to explore.
What Is La Castanyada and When Is It Celebrated?
La Castanyada is a traditional Catalan autumn festival celebrated around October 31 and November 1, coinciding with All Saints’ Day.
Its origins are linked to old customs of remembering loved ones who have passed away and sharing seasonal foods with family and friends.
Today, La Castanyada is a celebration of Catalan culture, bringing people together to enjoy roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes and traditional almond pastries known as panellets.
Although Halloween has become increasingly popular in Barcelona, La Castanyada remains an important local tradition with its own customs and flavours.
In 2026, October 31 falls on a Saturday and November 1 on a Sunday, making it an ideal weekend to discover the city.
Traditional Foods to Try During La Castanyada
One of the best ways to experience La Castanyada is through its food. Here are three traditional treats you shouldn’t miss.
1. Roasted Chestnuts (Castanyes)
Roasted chestnuts are the most recognisable symbol of La Castanyada.
During autumn, traditional street stalls known as castanyeres appear throughout Barcelona, selling freshly roasted chestnuts in small paper cones.
They’re warm, delicious and perfect for enjoying while exploring the city’s streets.
2. Panellets
Panellets are small traditional Catalan sweets made primarily from ground almonds and sugar.
The most popular variety is covered in pine nuts, although you’ll also find versions made with coconut, chocolate and other flavours.
During the days leading up to La Castanyada, bakeries across Barcelona prepare these seasonal treats.
If you’re visiting for the first time, trying a traditional pine nut panellet is a must.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes (Moniatos)
Roasted sweet potatoes are another essential part of La Castanyada.
Their naturally sweet flavour and soft texture make them a popular autumn snack, often sold alongside roasted chestnuts.
Traditionally, these foods may also be accompanied by moscatell, a sweet dessert wine.
Where to Find Roasted Chestnuts in Barcelona in 2026
One of the most charming things about Barcelona in autumn is discovering traditional chestnut stalls while walking through the city.
For the 2026 season, Barcelona has authorised more than 60 chestnut stalls across different neighbourhoods.
Here are some locations where stalls have been authorised:
Eixample
- Rambla de Catalunya, 102
- Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 522
Grà cia
- Passeig de Grà cia, 121
- Passeig de Sant Joan, 146
Ciutat Vella
- Avinguda de Francesc Cambó, 10
- Passeig de Joan de Borbó, 1
Sant MartÃ
- Rambla del Poblenou, 60
- Rambla del Poblenou, 124
Sants-Montjuïc
- Carrer de Blai, 70
- Passeig de Sant Antoni, 1
You can explore the full list of authorised stalls on betevé’s 2026 Barcelona chestnut stall map.
Keep in mind that authorised locations and actual opening times may vary, so check before heading out.
Best Things to Do in Barcelona During La Castanyada 2026
Beyond the traditional food, La Castanyada is a great excuse to explore Barcelona’s neighbourhoods, discover its architecture and enjoy the city’s autumn atmosphere.
1. Experience La Castanyada at Passeig de Sant Joan
One of the local celebrations listed in Barcelona’s official event calendar is Castanyada al Passeig de Sant Joan.
The event is listed for November 1, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, between Carrer de Rosselló and Carrer de Provença.
The programme includes roasted chestnut tastings, children’s activities and traditional wooden games.
Admission is free.
Check the official Barcelona City Council event listing before attending, as event details may change.
2. Explore the Gothic Quarter and El Born
If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, the Gothic Quarter and El Born are two neighbourhoods you shouldn’t miss.
Start by wandering through the narrow medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, discover Plaça de Sant Jaume and admire Barcelona Cathedral.
Then continue towards El Born, a lively neighbourhood filled with independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants.
It’s the perfect area to combine sightseeing with a stop for coffee, panellets or a traditional Catalan meal.
3. Discover the Charming Streets of Grà cia
For a more local experience, head to Grà cia.
Known for its pedestrian streets, independent shops and lively squares, Grà cia offers a different atmosphere from Barcelona’s busiest tourist areas.
Take a walk through Plaça de la Vila de Grà cia and Plaça del Sol, explore the neighbourhood and look out for seasonal chestnut stalls.
4. Admire Barcelona’s Modernist Architecture
If you have a little more time, combine your Castanyada plans with some of Barcelona’s most famous architectural landmarks.
A walk along Passeig de Grà cia allows you to admire iconic buildings such as Casa Batlló and La Pedrera.
You can also visit the Sagrada FamÃlia or explore other parts of the Eixample district.
If you’re planning to enter any major attractions, booking tickets in advance is recommended.
Visiting Barcelona With Luggage? Make the Most of Your Day
Imagine arriving in Barcelona at 9:00 AM, only to discover that your hotel check-in isn’t until 3:00 PM.
You have six hours to explore the Gothic Quarter, try traditional panellets and enjoy La Castanyada.
There’s just one problem: your suitcase.
Carrying luggage through Barcelona’s narrow streets, busy shopping areas and crowded attractions can quickly turn an exciting day into a stressful experience.
That’s where Bags&Go comes in.
Explore Barcelona Without Carrying Your Bags
Bags&Go provides professional luggage storage and door-to-door luggage transfer services in Barcelona, helping travellers make the most of their time without carrying heavy bags.
Instead of finding a luggage locker and returning to collect your suitcase, you can arrange for your luggage to be picked up and delivered to your next destination.
For example:
- Arriving at Barcelona Airport before hotel check-in? Have your luggage collected and delivered to your accommodation while you start exploring the city.
- Checking out of your hotel early? Enjoy your final hours in Barcelona while your luggage is transferred to your next stop.
- Arriving on a cruise? Discover Barcelona without carrying your suitcases before continuing your journey.
- Travelling through Barcelona Sants Station? Arrange a luggage transfer so you can explore the city before your next connection.
With Bags&Go, you can spend more time enjoying Barcelona and less time worrying about your bags.
How Does Bags&Go Work?
Booking your luggage transfer in Barcelona is simple.
Step 1: Book online
Choose your luggage pickup and delivery locations, preferred date and available time slots.
Step 2: We collect your luggage
The Bags&Go team collects your bags from the agreed location, whether that’s an airport, hotel, apartment, train station or cruise terminal.
Step 3: Enjoy Barcelona
Explore the city, discover local traditions and enjoy your day while your luggage is safely handled.
Step 4: Receive your luggage
Your bags are delivered to your selected destination at the agreed time.
Luggage transfer starts from €12 per bag, with a minimum service charge of €24, and insurance is included.
Bookings must be completed by 11:59 PM local time on the day before the service, so it’s best to arrange everything in advance.
You enjoy La Castanyada. We’ll take care of your luggage.
Book Your Luggage Transfer in Barcelona with Bags&Go
A One-Day Barcelona Itinerary for La Castanyada
Only have a few hours in Barcelona? You can still experience the best of La Castanyada while discovering some of the city’s most beautiful neighbourhoods.
Here’s a simple itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Morning: Gothic Quarter and El Born
Start your morning in Barcelona’s historic centre.
Explore the Gothic Quarter, admire Barcelona Cathedral and walk towards El Born.
Stop at a local bakery to try some traditional panellets or enjoy a coffee before continuing your walk.
If you’ve arrived with luggage, arranging a transfer in advance means you can start sightseeing without carrying your bags around.
Midday: Passeig de Sant Joan
Continue towards Passeig de Sant Joan, a pleasant avenue lined with cafés, restaurants and green spaces.
If you’re visiting on the day of the scheduled Castanyada celebration, you can check out the local activities and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Afterwards, stop for lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
Afternoon: Passeig de Grà cia
Spend the afternoon exploring Passeig de Grà cia, one of Barcelona’s most famous avenues.
Admire the modernist architecture, browse the shops and look out for a chestnut stall to enjoy one last autumn treat.
If you have a train or flight later in the day, make sure you allow enough time for your journey.
Practical Tips for Visiting Barcelona During La Castanyada
A little planning can make your weekend in Barcelona much easier.
- Check local event schedules: neighbourhood celebrations may change their dates, times or activities.
- Find chestnut stalls in advance: use the published location maps to plan your route.
- Book popular attractions early: tickets for major landmarks can sell out.
- Dress for autumn weather: temperatures can vary throughout the day, so bring a light jacket and check the forecast.
- Plan your luggage arrangements: if your arrival or departure doesn’t match your accommodation schedule, consider booking luggage storage or transfer.
- Explore by neighbourhood: grouping nearby attractions together saves time and makes sightseeing more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions About La Castanyada in Barcelona
When is La Castanyada in Barcelona in 2026?
La Castanyada is traditionally celebrated around October 31 and November 1. In 2026, these dates fall on Saturday and Sunday.
What is the difference between La Castanyada and Halloween?
Although both celebrations take place around the same time, they have different origins and traditions. La Castanyada is a Catalan celebration associated with All Saints’ Day, roasted chestnuts and panellets, while Halloween is known for costumes, pumpkins and trick-or-treating.
What traditional food should I try during La Castanyada?
The most popular foods are roasted chestnuts, panellets and roasted sweet potatoes. Moscatell, a sweet wine, is also traditionally associated with the celebration.
Where can I buy roasted chestnuts in Barcelona?
You can find seasonal chestnut stalls in several neighbourhoods, including Eixample, Grà cia, Ciutat Vella, Sant Martà and Sants-Montjuïc. Check the 2026 authorised stall locations before visiting.
What can I do in Barcelona during La Castanyada?
You can explore the Gothic Quarter and El Born, visit traditional bakeries, discover Grà cia, enjoy roasted chestnuts and attend local neighbourhood celebrations.
Where can I leave my luggage in Barcelona before hotel check-in?
You can use luggage storage or a luggage transfer service. Bags&Go offers luggage collection and delivery in Barcelona, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your suitcases.
Can I send my luggage from Barcelona Airport to my hotel?
Yes. Bags&Go offers luggage transfer services between Barcelona Airport and accommodation within its service area, subject to available pickup and delivery slots.
How much does luggage transfer cost in Barcelona?
Bags&Go luggage transfer starts at €12 per bag, with a minimum service charge of €24 for up to two bags. Insurance is included.
How can I book a luggage transfer in Barcelona?
You can book your luggage service online with Bags&Go by selecting your pickup and delivery locations, travel date and available time slots.
Enjoy La Castanyada in Barcelona Without Worrying About Your Luggage
La Castanyada is one of the most charming times to discover Barcelona.
From the smell of freshly roasted chestnuts to the colourful bakery displays filled with panellets, the city offers a wonderful mix of culture, food and local traditions.
Whether you’re spending the entire weekend in Barcelona or just a few hours before your next journey, there’s plenty to discover.
And if your travel schedule doesn’t match your hotel check-in or check-out times, there’s no reason to let your luggage get in the way.
With Bags&Go, you can arrange luggage pickup and delivery and make the most of every moment in the city.
More Barcelona. More experiences. Less luggage.
