Barcelona Zoo gets into the Christmas spirit with a program focused on biodiversity preservation
A 12-meter-tall Christmas tree in the Plaza de La Dama del Paraguas and a space to discover how the Tió takes care of the forests are part of the activities for these holidays until January 5th.
Barcelona Zoo is decked out for Christmas with new decorations and a special program running until January 5th. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities that encourage children to discover the richness of biodiversity and the importance of preserving it. A 12-meter-tall Christmas tree and an area to learn how the Tió (a traditional Catalan Christmas log) takes care of the forests are among the highlights.
For the first time, a large 12-meter-tall Christmas tree decorates the Plaça de la Dama del Paraguas (Lady of the Umbrella Square). In addition, there are Christmas and winter-themed photo booths scattered throughout the Zoo, where children and adults alike can take pictures, sing carols, or even make the Tió de Nadal (Catalan log) "poop." Another highlight is La Casa dels Tions (The House of the Tió), a space to discover how this emblematic figure of the Catalan forests cares for the natural environment and how we can all help. La Casa dels Tions is located at the entrance to the Savannah-Sahel area. On December 24th, all visitors are invited to make the Tió de Nadal "poop" in the Plaça de la Dama del Paraguas. This event, a Christmas tradition at the Barcelona Zoo, will take place at 12 noon.
Another activity returning to Barcelona Zoo this time of year is the Christmas treasure hunt, a game the whole family can enjoy, designed to liven up your visit and expand your knowledge about preserving biodiversity. The treasure hunt will be available until December 31st.
Christmas camps and days dedicated to grandparents are also back!
As every year, during the school holidays, Barcelona Zoo offers summer camps for children aged 5 to 14. "Zoo Chefs" will take place on December 22, 23, and 24; "Sign Up to Work for Conservation" will run from December 29 to 31 and January 2; and "Let's Travel with Animals" will be on January 5. And for the third year in a row, on December 22 and 23, the Zoo will celebrate Kangaroo Day, two days to honor all those family members and friends who make work-life balance possible in many homes. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and kangaroos who visit Barcelona Zoo will receive a free double admission (one adult and one child).
A new activity to learn about the importance of wetlands
Coinciding with its Christmas program, Barcelona Zoo is also launching a new experimental activity to explore the role of wetlands and their importance as natural filters, as they retain sediments and improve water quality. During the activity, aimed at families with children between 3 and 12 years old, the operation of the pilot plant for natural filters is also explained. This plant regenerates water from the Zoo's facilities for reuse. This installation, developed within the framework of the LIFE4Zoo project "Water resource management in urban parks - FIT4USE water recirculation technology," is funded by the European Union through the LIFE program. This activity, available on weekends and holidays, costs €3 per child and €6 per adult and requires prior booking through the Zoo's website. Barcelona Zoo
The magic of Christmas arrives at BSM spaces
Barcelona Zoo's Christmas program is part of a new range of activities offered by the Barcelona City Council's company, BSM, for the holiday season in various iconic locations throughout the city. In addition to Barcelona Zoo, the Tibidabo amusement park has already unveiled new displays and decorations inspired by the season, and Park Güell has illuminated the Hypostyle Hall for the first time, adding Christmas decorations designed to allow residents to experience the magic of Christmas in the city from the park itself. Starting December 20th, the Olympic Port will also be filled with light, excitement, and tradition, offering unique experiences to the public. This year, the decorations take center stage, featuring iconic elements that define the Christmas spirit: large, 12-meter-tall natural trees grace each space, adorned with lights and themed motifs that symbolize the joy of the Christmas holidays. Around it unfold other decorative elements, workshops, activities, and shows that invite participation and help capture unique moments such as the Tió de Nadal (Christmas log), a visit from Santa's elves, or handing over letters to the Three Kings' pages.
With an extensive program designed for enjoyment with family and friends, BSM transforms these spaces into ideal meeting points to experience the magic of Christmas without leaving the city. The program began on November 22, 2025, and will run until January 5, 2026, with offerings that combine tradition and creativity.