La Castanyada

La Castañada is a traditional celebration held in Catalonia and other regions of Spain during the night of October 31st, the eve of All Saints' Day. It is a festivity deeply rooted in Catalan culture and has its origins in ancient pagan traditions related to the arrival of autumn and the commemoration of the deceased.

During La Castañada, families and friends gather to share a special dinner featuring typical autumn foods, with a particular emphasis on chestnuts, sweet potatoes (boniatos), and panellets. Roasted chestnuts are one of the most iconic elements of the celebration. They are prepared in braziers or in the fireplace and eaten hot, enveloped in a delicious and comforting aroma. Roasted sweet potatoes are also very popular and served as a side dish or dessert.

Panellets are small traditional sweets made from ground almonds, sugar, and egg, covered with pine nuts or other ingredients, and baked until golden on the outside and tender inside. Panellets can have different flavors and shapes and are a typical delight of La Castañada shared among family and friends.

In addition to food, La Castañada may also include other activities such as visiting cemeteries to remember deceased loved ones, going on countryside excursions to collect chestnuts, and organizing panellet contests or public concerts in town squares.

In summary, La Castañada is a heartfelt celebration that marks the arrival of autumn in Catalonia, bringing together families and friends to enjoy an evening of food, tradition, and companionship in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is an opportunity to honor the deceased and celebrate the earth's bounty during this time of year.