Joanetes Living Nativity 2026
The Joanetes Living Nativity 2026 in the Vall d'en Bas (Garrotxa) is one of the most spectacular in Catalonia. Watched by the world's largest illuminated star (Guinness World Record), this route of one-kilometre gathers more than 400 extras. Check the essential information here about the purchase of tickets (card payments are not accepted), times and access.
The Experience: A Guinness Record and peasant tradition
Beyond the impressive illuminated star on the cliff of Santa Magdalena, the pessebre (born in 1984) absolutely transforms the entire town of Joanetes. Nearly fifty scenes transport us to peasant life and traditional trades. A gigantic attraction for the families is the presence of more than 40 real farm animals (donkeys, lambs, cows, roosters) perfectly integrated into the recreated farm work that is recreated there.
Times and performance dates
- Key dates: The calendar includes the main dates of the holidays: 25, 26, 27 and 28 December 2026, as well as theJanuary 1 and 2 2027.
- Adapted times:
- on December 25, it opens exceptionally at 19:00 h to respect the Christmas lunch.
- The rest of the days (December 26, 27, 28 and January 1, 2), the opening is advanced to 18:00 h.
Tickets and prices (Attention: Cash only!)
Vital Service Information: The organization warns that They do NOT offer advance online sales or card payments. Tickets are purchased directly at the ticket office at the start of the route and it is mandatory to bring cash.
- General admission (Adults): €7 (A very affordable price for the large-scale production).
- Children (Up to 6 years): Totally free access.
How to get there and new parking
- Where to park: The organisation has recently invested in an expansion of the dedicated parking area and improved its lighting to make arrival and departure safer and more comfortable. Follow the signs to reach the Vall d'en Bas.
Practical information: Wi-Fi, cold and accessibility
- The cold is no excuse: La Garrotxa is very cold in winter, that's why the organization enables several warm-up points along the route where it is offered hot chocolate and soup for everyone
- Free Wi-Fi: Quite a rarity and a great service: the living nativity scene offers free Wi-Fi for visitors who want to share their photos online.
- Pets: Given the large number of live farm animals present in the scenes, we recommend contacting the organization in advance if you intend to bring your dog
Where to eat in Joanetes
If you want to round off your outing by sitting down to lunch or dinner in the Vall d'en Bas (it is essential book days in advance), the town of Joanetes itself offers you two excellent options without having to move the car a lot:
- Bar Can Pau: A fantastic alternative and very well rated if what you need is to have a quick bite, a sandwich or have a drink in an authentic village-bar atmosphere. Telephone: 621 28 61 22.
- Restaurant Fonda Barris: A local institution in the area. With almost 1,000 reviews, it's the ideal establishment if you're looking for a hearty meal and high-quality traditional Catalan cuisine (Crta. Torelló, GIV-5273). Telephone: 972 69 00 64.
Latest editorial revision: April 12, 2026.
Information status: Logistics data, ticket office rules (cash only) and times are validated with the latest announcements from the organization. Pending final confirmation of the dates for the 2026-2027 season.
Priority sources: organization, town hall and official channels when they are available How we work.