Llums d’Hivern: Raval’s Inclusive Twist on Festive Lighting
Embracing minimalism and religious diversity
This holiday season, Barcelona’s Raval district is breaking with tradition. Forget the giant stars and glitzy, Christmas-centric displays; instead, the neighbourhood is lighting up with “Llums d’Hivern” (Winter Lights), a celebration of its rich cultural and religious diversity.
Designed by local artist Imanol Ossa in collaboration with Raval’s vibrant commercial community, these lights take a refreshingly inclusive approach. Their goal? To reflect the warmth, diversity, and creativity that define this storied neighbourhood. The project’s modest €65,000 budget has yielded 4,195 meters of garlands featuring simple, colourful bulbs—free of religious or holiday-specific symbols.
Unlike traditional Christmas lighting, the “Llums d’Hivern” garlands embrace minimalism. They’re designed to foster a sense of belonging, regardless of background or belief, transforming Raval into a luminous invitation to explore its lively streets and squares.
The lights illuminate several iconic locations, including Tallers, Joaquín Costa, Ferlandina, and Valldonzella streets, as well as the Rambla del Raval. Key plazas like Salvador Seguí and Vicenç Martorell also sparkle under the new garlands, offering a festive yet universal vibe that welcomes everyone.
One standout feature of the project is its sustainability. The garlands are rented rather than owned, ensuring they can be reused in other contexts, thereby avoiding storage challenges and reducing waste. This eco-conscious decision aligns with Barcelona’s broader sustainability goals, giving these inclusive lights an even brighter purpose.
Beyond the lights themselves, this initiative shines a spotlight on Raval’s essence: a neighbourhood defined by its warmth, proximity, and unparalleled diversity. For locals and visitors alike, strolling through these illuminated streets isn’t just about festive cheer—it’s an invitation to connect with the authentic soul of Barcelona.
So, this winter, leave your preconceptions about holiday décor behind and take a walk through Raval’s “Llums d’Hivern.” It’s a simple yet profound reminder that light, much like community, knows no bounds.