The Catalans really do have their own take on Christmas.

Yes, they do the same things as everywhere else, Christmas Trees, lights and presents. But there's also the hugely popular craze of Els Pastorets. Think Cludo-like mystery play, except they concentrate on the story of the nativity, and run in theatres and local community centres all over the city in December and January. This is Catalunya though, so they're not your standard primary-school- show-complete-with-video- wielding-parent. More like a cross between panto and religious tableaux, there can be fireworks, horned devils and winged angels flying from the ceiling. Not to be missed.

There are several on in Barcelona, but we recommend the Pastorets De Ribes which is held in San Pere De Ribes, just a few minutes drive from Sitges