Name: Roasted Chestnuts, Panellets & Costume Contests
Start: 2026-10-31
End: 2026-11-01T23:59:59
Location: Citywide (squares, schools & civic centres)

Question 1

Do I need to book ahead or just show up?

Accepted Answer

Most schools and civic centers don't require advance booking, you just turn up. That said, the bigger events in central squares can get crowded on the afternoon of October 31st, so arriving early (like 4pm) gives you a better shot at getting chestnuts and trying the workshops before they run out of supplies.

Question 2

How much should I budget for food?

Accepted Answer

Roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes usually cost 3-5 euros for a small bag, and panellets are around 2-3 euros for a few pieces. If your kids do a workshop, that's typically another 5-8 euros. So plan on 15-20 euros total if you want everyone to eat and do an activity.

Question 3

Is this more of a Halloween thing or a traditional Catalan thing?

Accepted Answer

It's genuinely both now. The core tradition is the chestnuts and panellets, which is very Catalan and has nothing to do with Halloween. But in the last decade, a lot of neighborhoods have mixed in costume contests and face painting to appeal to kids who are already thinking about Halloween costumes anyway. If your kids want to dress up, they can; if not, they'll fit right in.

Question 4

What's the Castanyera character and will my kid find it scary?

Accepted Answer

The Castanyera is basically a friendly old woman in traditional dress who sells chestnuts, kind of like a street vendor character. She's not spooky at all, just part of the tradition. Some venues add Halloween-themed activities to the mix, but those are easy to skip if your kid is young or easily spooked.

Roasted Chestnuts, Panellets & Costume Contests

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