by Maria Fernanda Gonzalez Rivas
I’ve lived in Sabadell, just outside of Barcelona, for the past 8 years, and wouldn’t trade it for anything. It’s a place where history, culture, and a sense of community blend effortlessly. Whether it’s a weekend stroll through our vibrant markets, a quiet evening in one of our parks, or dancing through the streets during a festival, Sabadell has a way of making you feel at home.
Festivals and Celebrations
One of the things that truly defines Sabadell is its love for celebration. Take "Fiesta Mayor," for example—every September, the city transforms into a lively wonderland of music, fireworks, parades, and carnival rides. The best part? It all happens right outside our main office, which means I get a front-row seat to the excitement! But that’s just one of many cultural events—there’s always something happening here.
Another magical event happens every December at City Hall. Through the first 24 days of the month, the advent calendar is brought to life, with a new light shining each day. The main character of this tradition is El Llaminer, a whimsical figure dressed as if made of magical candy, who sings and tells a different story every evening. It’s a truly enchanting way to count down to Christmas and a must-see if you’re visiting during the holiday season.
A Perfect Balance of Energy and Tranquility
For me, Sabadell is the perfect balance of lively and laid-back. The streets are always buzzing with people, yet there’s a sense of calm that’s hard to find in bigger cities. If you’re looking for a quiet escape, there’s no shortage of green spaces. One of my favorite ways to unwind is taking a nighttime summer walk, when the warm breeze carries the faint sounds of laughter from nearby cafés.
Must-See Attractions
If you ever visit, there are a few places you simply must see:
- Parc Catalunya: More than just a park—it’s a gathering place, a playground, a picnic spot, and even a runner’s paradise. The giant slide alone is worth the trip!
- City Hall: A stunning architectural gem surrounded by charming churches and fountains. Come in December, and you’ll be treated to a Christmas market and a life-sized Nativity scene.
- Masia de Can Deu: A historic estate that holds a museum, a rescued church, and even a small farm where locals grow their own vegetables.
Hidden Gems
For those who love discovering hidden gems, I always recommend the Vot del Colera pilgrimage. It’s a 168-year-old tradition that takes you on a three-hour journey through hills and countryside, ending at a stunning sanctuary in the woods. And the best part? There's a delicious snack waiting for you at the finish line! Another is The Rodal, a green area along the Ripoll River that has recovered its native flora and fauna after many years of being the dumping ground for the textile companies located by the river. The strength of the people led to the recovery of this environment, and now it is an idyllic place to walk, run, and cycle, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, where you can discover Romanesque churches and typical Catalan farmhouses.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Sabadell’s weather is just as welcoming as its people. My favorite season? Winter. Sure, it’s cold, but the sun never really leaves us. There’s nothing quite like a crisp, sunny winter morning here.
Food and Dining
Of course, no visit is complete without indulging in the local food:
- Tapas: Small bites of deliciousness best enjoyed with a glass of wine on a sunny terrace.
- La Bella Italia: Some of the best Neapolitan pizza around.
- Here: A fantastic Chinese Barspot which is a hot spot for cocktails at any time of day.
- El Canalla: Luxury dining at surprisingly great prices right next to City Hall.
- Pit i Cuixa: to taste really local and typical Catalan food.
Markets and Specialty Stores
If you love exploring food markets, Mercat Central is the place to be. It’s packed with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies—you might even find yourself planning an impromptu picnic.
Unique Traditions
One of the quirkiest traditions we have here is Correfocs. Imagine people dressed as devils, dancing through the streets with fireworks in hand. It’s thrilling, a little chaotic, and a whole lot of fun. Just be careful—you don’t want to end up with a burnt sweater like I did!
My Advice to Visitors
My biggest piece of advice to anyone visiting Sabadell? Don’t just chase the tourist attractions. Slow down. Take a walk through Parc Catalunya, ride the little train, watch the sunset by the duck lake, or simply sit under a waterfall. The magic of Sabadell is in these little moments.
A Final Thought
If I had to sum up Sabadell in one sentence? It’s a peaceful place with everything you need—there’s really no reason to go anywhere else. And with so many events, traditions, and beautiful spaces to explore, there’s always something new to discover. So, whenever you find yourself in this corner of Spain, stay curious and enjoy the little things—because that’s where Sabadell’s true charm lies.
