Santa Pau Living Nativity 2026
The Santa Pau Living Nativity (la Garrotxa) is one of the most anticipated events during the early-December holiday weekend. Held in Santa Pau’s historic Vila Vella, it brings together more than four decades of tradition and the involvement of the whole village. Here is the practical information you need to plan your visit.
The experience: two contrasting sections in the Vila Vella
What began in 1984 as a simple activity at the local school has now become a cultural event organised by the Associació d'Amics del Pessebre Vivent. The Living Nativity scene is presented through a series of static theatrical scenes with carefully crafted period costumes.
The performance is structured in two clearly distinct parts. The first, more solemn in tone, is the biblical section, recreating the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. The second half takes on a freer and more approachable style, with everyday scenes and traditional trades.
Confirmed dates
- Confirmed dates: Santa Pau’s official tourism agenda lists the Living Nativity on 5 and 6 December 2026.
- Time and format: The exact times for the 2026 edition have not yet been published. In recent seasons, the organisers have scheduled a single evening session, but the exact time has yet to be confirmed when ticket information is released.
Online tickets and soup tasting at the end
Because Santa Pau receives a large number of visitors on these dates, a very practical system has been put in place to manage access to the Vila Vella:
- Advance sales: The official tourism listing links to the organisers’ website for ticket purchases. The opening date for 2026 ticket sales has not yet been published.
- Tasting: In keeping with Garrotxa tradition, and to help visitors warm up, a hot soup tasting is offered at the end of the route.
Food: where to eat in the centre of Santa Pau
A walk through Santa Pau’s old town is also a good way to discover Garrotxa cooking and local produce. If you plan to stay for a meal after the Living Nativity scene (or have lunch beforehand), there are several places nearby:
- Restaurant Masnou: A Mediterranean and traditional option serving Garrotxa cuisine made with local produce in a rustic dining room.
- Restaurant Queda bé (Avinguda de l'Estany, 14): An option for a local menu, with quality produce and grilled dishes.
- Can Pauet (Carrer Major, 15): A calm and welcoming bar-restaurant, suitable if you are looking for a relaxed setting to end the day.
During the early-December holiday weekend, Santa Pau receives a high number of visitors. Booking restaurants in advance is strongly recommended.
Last editorial review: 8 July 2026.
Information status: The dates of 5 and 6 December 2026 appear in Santa Pau’s official tourism agenda, with the Associació d'Amics del Pessebre Vivent listed as the organiser. Times and ticket sales are still awaiting detailed publication. How we work.