The countdown to Christmas in Barcelona has officially begun. This Saturday, November 22, the city will switch on its festive lighting on Passeig de Gràcia, marking the starting signal for a season that will last until January 6, 2026. The inauguration, which this year is a few days ahead of tradition (specifically on the 22nd, at 6:30 p.m.), will take place in the section between Ronda de Sant Pere and Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, with a multidisciplinary show by the Brava Arts company.
But not everything will be magic and color. The preparations for the lights and the central act force to restrict traffic on one of the main arteries of the city. If you are one of those who move around the center, take note: Passeig de Gràcia becomes a zone of works and party, which translates into significant effects on mobility.
Mobility is restructured in Passeig de Gràcia
Traffic cuts and parking bans have been taking place since Wednesday to allow the assembly of the stage and lighting installations. However, the peak of the restrictions will come on the day of the lighting:
- From Wednesday, November 19 (7 am): the central roadway of Passeig de Gràcia (between Ronda de Sant Pere and Gran Via) will be cut off and parking will be prohibited, including motorcycles on the sidewalk. These restrictions will remain in place until 6 am on Sunday 23rd.
- Saturday, November 22 (afternoon of maximum restrictions):
- From 3 pm to 8 pm: Side lanes of Passeig de Gràcia will be cut off.
- From 17 h: The Gran Via and Passeig de Gràcia crossroads will be closed.
- From 17:30 h: Total cut of Passeig de Gràcia, between Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes and Aragó street, also affecting the side lanes.
What about detours? Vehicles circulating on Gran Via will have to detour through Entença, Comte d’Urgell, Aribau and Balmes streets (Besòs direction) or through Roger de Llúria and Pau Claris (Llobregat direction).
Public transport: diverted buses
Traffic disruptions will force to modify the route of seven TMB bus lines: D50, V15, 19, 22, 24, 54 and 67. In addition, the stops located in the affected section of Passeig de Gràcia will be cancelled during the period of restrictions.