Barcelona knows how to party.
NYE is a big deal in the city by the sea. Though big brother Madrid’s Puerta del Sol celebration is the closest thing Spain has to the NYC countdown, Barcelona has enough excitement to give even the most legendary NYE locations a run for their money, whether its euros, dollars, yen or pounds.
Plaza Espanya: Barcelona’s New Year’s Eve 2015 Celebration & Fireworks
Last year we stood at the foot of the Font Magica, looking back to a sea of people stretching from where we were standing all the way to Plaza Espanya. It was a grand spectacle — the crowd was shoulder-to-shoulder for hundreds of yards.
Fireworks were exploding overhead, sparkling wine was bubbling, grapes were being devoured and an overall sense of elation flooded Barcelona’s most popular NYE celebration.
Here’s a YouTube video which captures the spirit of the moment. As you’ll see, people, enthusiasm and vigorous shouts of joy were plentiful:
We expect nothing less this year. According to Barcelona’s official NYE page, the festivities will begin at Plaza Espanya at 11:30 with a variety of entertainment. Fireworks will kick off at midnight and festivities will continue until 12:30.
When the clock strikes 12, you’ll hear a series of bells ring 12 times. It is customary to eat a grape for each ring of the bell, as the tradition will bring you good fortune and luck in the New Year. Don’t be bashful about bringing a bottle of sparkling wine with you, either!
How to Get to the Barcelona 2015 New Year’s Eve Celebration and Fireworks
WARNING! Madness Make The Commute Crazy!
If you are planning on heading to Plaza Espanya for the party, we suggest you head to the Poble Sec metro stop on the green line around 9:00 p.m. and grab some tapas and drinks. Then, head to Plaza Espanya. The whole area around the plaza will be packed and the earlier you arrive, the better.
If you try arriving after 11:30 p.m., you’ll most likely be really far from the action and, in some cases, the metro will stop running the stop before Plaza Espanya because the crowds are so gigantic. Also, the commute back to your flat or hotel will be insanely crowded. Long lines form at the metro stations, and, in many cases, metro trains will be so full you can’t get on. If you are the least bit claustrophobic, be prepared to be extremely nervous. The same goes for buses.
You’re better off calling for a cab, but even that can be tricky. If you’re stuck, head back to Poble Sec and hide out in a bar for a while. They’re sure to have glasses of cava for cheap, and it will help you pass the time as the crowds thin out!
