When learning a new language, understanding the cultural nuances and traditions is key to mastering it – and holidays and special occasions are an essential part of this understanding. In this spirit, let’s explore some of the most common holiday and special occasions words in Catalan – the language spoken in Catalonia, located in the northeastern region of Spain.

Nadal – Christmas, is the festive season celebrated by millions around the world, including Catalonia. It is a time of joy, family gatherings, and traditional customs.
Els carrers són plens de llums durant el Nadal.

Cap d’Any – New Year’s Eve, marks the end of the year and the beginning of a new one, often celebrated with fireworks and parties.
Ens reunirem a la plaça per celebrar el Cap d’Any.

Reis – Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day, is celebrated on January 6th, commemorating the visit of the Magi to baby Jesus.
Els nens esperen amb il·lusió l’arribada dels Reis.

Sant Joan – St. John’s Day, celebrated on June 24th, it’s marked by bonfires, fireworks, and festivities to welcome the summer.
La nit de Sant Joan és màgica amb els focs artificials il·luminant el cel.

La Diada – National Day of Catalonia, observed on September 11th, is a day of remembrance and Catalan pride.
Moltes persones pengen senyeres als balcons durant La Diada.

Carnestoltes – Carnival, a festive period before Lent with parades, costumes, and merriment.
Ens disfressarem i sortirem pels carrers durant el Carnestoltes.

Setmana Santa – Holy Week, leading up to Easter, is a significant and solemn time with processions and religious observances.
La Setmana Santa és un temps de reflexió i tradició a Catalunya.

La Castanyada – Castanyada is a traditional festival held on October 31st, where Catalans eat chestnuts, panellets, and sweet potatoes, and drink sweet wine.
Per la Castanyada, l’àvia sempre fa els millors panellets.

Sant Jordi – St. George’s Day, celebrated on April 23rd, is a romantic occasion where it’s customary to exchange books and roses.
Els enamorats es regalen llibres i roses per Sant Jordi.

El Caga Tió – a unique Catalan Christmas tradition involving a log that ‘gives’ presents when beaten with sticks on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Els nens han estat alimentant el Caga Tió tot el desembre a l’espera dels regals.

Nit de Reis – Twelfth Night, the evening of January 5th, when Catalan families prepare for the arrival of the Three Kings with a special dinner.
Tot està a punt per la nit més màgica de l’any, la Nit de Reis.

Each of these words represents more than just a name of a holiday—they’re a gateway to understanding Catalan culture and traditions. By learning these terms and integrating them into your vocabulary, you immerse yourself more deeply in the language and the life of the region. Happy learning, or as you would say in Catalan, “Bona aprenentatge!”