Yours, mine, ours
In 1992 Barcelona opened itself to the sea and the world and since then it has been a highly sought-after destination for visitors from all over.
Over the years it has evolved from a vacation town to a residence for many foreigners seeking a different life experience, a new home in a place with good weather, full of culture and traditions.
Sant Cugat del Vallès, close to the city of Barcelona (18 km) and at the same time separated from it by the Collserola mountain range, maintains the richness of Catalan traditions while integrating those of all its inhabitants, including the 13% of the population who are originally from another country, bringing diversity and a unique personality to this place.
This weekend, three very important festivals coincide and intertwine:
Castanyada
A traditional festival with over three centuries of history, celebrated on All Saints’ Eve. Besides Catalonia, other regions such as Aragon, the Balearic Islands, and Valencia also celebrate it. The act of roasting chestnuts represents a connection with the souls of the departed. Its undisputed symbol is the Castanyera, an elderly woman seated in front of the chestnut roaster, dressed in humble clothing: a wide skirt, a black apron, a headscarf, and a white woolen cape tied around her neck and covering her shoulders. Nowadays, families gather for a joyful evening, sharing panellets (small marzipan sweets with pine nuts), Muscat wine, stories, and songs.
Halloween
Its origins lie in Europe. Immigrants brought it to America, and from there it returns, big, terrifying, and fun, to become part of local festivities. We see pumpkins with carved faces, costumes of witches, zombies, and mummies. Shops welcome groups of children asking for “trick or treat” in exchange for some candy or a small gift. There are also those who dress up as a Castanyera (chestnut seller) or Catrina (a Day of the Dead figure).
All Hallows/Day of the Dead
A day to remember those who are no longer with us. In Spain, especially in smaller towns, the custom is to visit the cemetery and leave flowers on the niches. In Mexico, this tradition blended with pre-Hispanic customs to give rise to the Day of the Dead, where the offering also includes incense and candles, photographs of loved ones, sugar skulls, and the famous Catrina, as well as food and drink to share with those expected to visit, at least for that night. All of this takes place in a festive atmosphere, filled with the joy of knowing that here or there, we are all connected.
At BQgat Relocation we listen to you, connect with you and your needs to help you find your new home in Barcelona and Sant Cugat del Vallès.
Lola e Isabel
