Every year at Christmas time, the Villavecchia Foundation’s Solidarity Christmas Market comes to life in Barcelona, transforming Casa Capell into a place where the festive spirit and solidarity meet. From November 27 to 30, this event promises a unique experience, full of emotional moments and activities for the whole family. With free admission, the market will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., looking forward to welcoming people looking to celebrate Christmas with a purpose.
Solidarity Origin and Year-over-Year Growth
What began in 2011 as a small event, organized by a group of volunteers from the Enriqueta Villavecchia Children’s Oncology Foundation, is now an essential date of Christmas in Barcelona. Since its first edition, the Christmas Market has grown in an amazing way, reaching in 2023 more than 4,000 visitors and raising more than 44,000 euros. This success is largely due to the generosity of companies and individuals, as well as the unconditional support of 110 volunteers and the students of 31 schools who participate in the decoration of the event. The proceeds from the Christmas Market Solidario go entirely to the Villavecchia Foundation’s programs to support children and young people with cancer or other serious illnesses and their families, providing them with comprehensive assistance ranging from emotional support to logistical support.
Thematic Spaces that Make the Event a Unique Experience
In this year’s edition, the Solidarity Christmas Market is divided into several spaces, each designed to offer a complete Christmas experience:
Magic Forest: Creation and Remembrance
One of the most emotional spaces is the Magic Forest, where the Christmas trees are decorated with stars handmade by students from various schools in Barcelona. These stars represent the children and young people that the Foundation has accompanied in their fight against the disease, and the act of creating them is a message of support and hope that connects the entire community. This forest becomes a visible tribute, remembering those who are no longer here and those who continue to fight.
Food Corner: Flavors that Add
Another outstanding space is the Food Corner, a temptation for those who enjoy Christmas gastronomy. Here you can find everything from wines and champagnes to handmade chocolates and sweets. The “Sonrisas de Chocolate” chocolate, created especially for the Villavecchia Foundation by Chocolates Torras, is one of the most popular products. Every bite is a small contribution to the cause, turning pleasure into a way to contribute.
Christmas Corner: Gifts with Value
The Christmas Corner offers Christmas items and gifts, all donated by companies or made by volunteers. From candles to ceramic pieces, this corner is full of objects that, in addition to decorating, carry with them the message of solidarity. Every detail found in this corner, including the Keta solidarity doll, is a piece that represents the support of those who contribute with their hands and creativity.
Natural Corner: A Sustainable Touch for Christmas
For those looking for sustainable decorating options, the Natural Corner is the place to be. This space offers natural Christmas products, from advent wreaths to centerpieces made from recycled materials. This area reflects the Villavecchia Foundation’s commitment to the environment, proposing a more conscious and respectful Christmas.
A Light that Shines at the Solidarity Christmas Market
This year, the Christmas Market has a special novelty: one of the Christmas lights of “Els Llums de Sant Pau” will illuminate the event, marking the first time that one of these emblematic lights will be displayed outside of its original venue. This light symbolizes the hope and support that the Christmas Market provides to children and their families.
Activities for the whole family
The Solidarity Christmas Market is not only a place to shop and donate, but also organizes workshops, activities for children and face painting. These family activities aim to involve everyone in the cause and create an unforgettable experience, where children can enjoy themselves while understanding the value of solidarity. The Villavecchia Foundation’s Solidarity Christmas Market in Barcelona is much more than a Christmas market; it is an invitation to reflect on the meaning of the holidays and a reminder of the importance of supporting those who need it most. In an environment where consumerism can detract from the essence of Christmas, this event reaffirms the power of community to make a real difference.
