Article published on November 20, 2015 in LF World
The Shopping Night Barcelona 2015, an LFStyle Guide
“To Shop or Not To Shop”…that is the question at this year’s Shopping Night Barcelona event, which is adopting a William Shakespeare theme (last year’s event was focused on the glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age, whilst 2013 showcased the drama of Wagner’s opera).
“TSNB” (now in its 6th edition) will take place on 3 December from 8pm to the wee small hours, and is set to be one of the highlights of the city’s winter calendar. The Shopping Night is the brainchild of the “Friends of Passeig de Gràcia” initiative, who have teamed up with Rabbit PR to create one of the largest scale events in Barcelona (last year’s event attracted nearly 70,000 visitors).
Once again, the boutiques and businesses along Paseo de Gracia (and several intersecting streets) will throw open their doors for a joyous soirée of festive fun, fashion and feasting. Nearly every shop along the lengthy, iconic shopping boulevard will participate, offering juicy promotions (usually accompanied by complimentary drinks, an in-house DJ and occasionally a goodie bag filled with tempting samples and treats!).
Throughout November, in the run-up to the night itself there will be an array of introductory Shakespeare themed concerts and plays including a Tribute to Lady Macbeth at the lavish Gran Teatre del Liceu, Top Girls at the Theatre Akademi and Le Petit inspired by Shakespeare at the Royal Artistic Circle.
This year, the organisers have really gone to town with the theme, splitting the Paseo and surrounding streets into 9 individual spaces, each dedicated to one of Shakespeare’s great works, creating a journey of sorts through the bard’s most iconic plays from Romeo & Juliet to Hamlet, with a broader selection of cultural offerings than ever before…
“A Midwinter Shopping’s Dream”
Where? Palau Robert, Passeig de Gràcia 107
What? The iconic Palau Robert will host the second annual TSNB Golden Awards, as well as the prize-giving for the Gaudi Cinema Awards. This breathtaking Modernista building has just undergone extensive renovations, and will be the event’s central hub. Keep an eye out for the projected event map!
“The Tempest”
Where? Passeig de Gràcia, between Diagonal and Rosselló
What? This space will be dedicated to the city’s performing arts and design schools, in collaboration with TSNB. Creatively reinterpreting one of Shakespeare’s most visually elaborate works, stop by for performances. catwalks and presentations galore by the likes of ELISAVA, Escola Illa and ESDI. Don’t miss the crème de la crème of Barcelona’s young creative talent, showcased beautifully throughout the space around Diagonal metro.
‘Hamlet, Prince of Denmark”
Where? Passeig de Gràcia, between Passatge de la Concepció and Provença
What? This space is dedicated to the event’s big name brand sponsors, each hosting an elaborate stand. Be sure to drop by for samples and tasters from several as of yet unnamed international super brands.
Antony and Cleopatra
Where? Passeig de Gràcia, between Diputació and Gran Via
What? Another zone dedicated to the event’s sponsors – this time, with a more local flavour. In the words of the organisers: “Do not miss the gifts and samples that our partners have prepared for you!”.
Othello
Where? Passeig de Gràcia, between Mallorca and Provença
What? Split between sponsors Porsche (who will be launching a brand new model of supercar) and The Chinese Culture Association (who will be offering a glimpse into, you guessed it, many fascinating aspects of Chinese culture, from regional delicacies, to traditional dance performances).
“Measure For Measure”
Where? Reial Cercle Artistic de Barcelona, Passeig de Gràcia with Provença
What? A hub for art lovers, this section of TSNB will be devoted to a beautiful exhibition of paintings and lovely live music from a variety of creatives!
“The Globe Theatre” – Valformosa
Where? Provença, between Passeig de Gràcia and Pau Claris
What? Though not quite the iconic thatched Tudor playhouse we know and love, expect a programme of thoroughly entertaining theatre at TSNB’s dramatic nerve centre (with an innovative piece directed by renowned Peter Street).
IED Barcelona Escola Superior de Disseny @ Provenca: Just outside the Valformosa theatre, be sure to visit the IED Barcelona school of design’s stand for custom fashion illustrations that will transport you to Juliet’s balcony! They are running an exciting competition to win a customized garment by prize-winning student Patricia Ferreira too!
“The Merry Wives of Windsor”
Where? “Van Van Market“, Passeig de Gràcia, between Gran Via and Casp
What? This popular labyrinth of international food trucks will be popping up to offer a tremendously broad selection of tasty delicacies from across the globe. You will be absolutely spoiled for choice!
“The Taming of the Shrew”
Where? “Alpha Publicidad”, Passeig de Gràcia, between Casp and Ronda Sant Pere
What? A more festive street market, with stands from local craftsmen and more innovative food trucks serving up tantalising, hearty fayre. Pick up a steamy mulled wine and browse the array of locally-made products!
“The cultural stuff sounds fabulous, but tell us more about the shopping!”, I hear you cry..”well ok then”
Some of Spain’s most iconic brands, including designer as well as high street names will be adorning their storefronts in finery, with red carpets and VIP treatment, including plenty of photo opportunities, so dress to impress!
** I recommend arriving nice and early to bag some superlative bargains before the crowds gather, particularly in stores which don’t ordinarily offer discounts during conventional sale periods.
With great discounts for one night only, TBSN is the ideal occasion to kick-start your Christmas shopping whilst simultaneously treating yourself, or simply as an excuse for a fun evening out with friends and family (look out for complimentary make-overs – which we have loved indulging with in previous years’ events)!
Many well known brands are keeping their in-store promotions and giveaways under wraps until the big night (brands from Mango to H&M are keeping shtum), so here is just a taste of what lies in store, with a select few participants revealing what they’ve got planned for us…
& Other Stories…
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 8-10
What? This lovely upmarket brand from the H&M family will be offering complimentary in-store nail tutorials and 50% off all shoes! So there’s no excuse for unkempt manis or unshod tootsies…
Maje Paris
Where? Rambla de Catalunya 120
What? Maje is a luxurious bohemian brand showcasing the signature chic Parisian look. Stroll down their red Carpet and strike a pose for the official photocall, before indulging in a Maje signature cocktail and catering (plus they are giving away a free gift with purchase)… Très chic indeed.
Brandy Melville
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 21
What? This trendy brand hailing from the U S of A will be hosting a masquerade themed party in-store, with Love Potions (and plenty of beers) inspired by Romeo & Juliet, with a 10% discount on all purchases!
L’Occitane
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 11
What? This gorgeous Provençal brand will be offering a 20% discount on all products, as well as complimentary hand massages, product testers and a special prize draw every hour. There will also be delicious Christmas nibbles by master French pastry chef, Pierre Herme!
Nespresso
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 55
What? Luxurious coffee brand Nespresso will be throwing open the doors of their brand new uber-chic flagship store for the first time, so expect your caffeine fix with a dash of Clooney-esque style.
NB: Real life George Clooney not included (Alas. Where for art thou George?)
Longchamp
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 86
What? The luxury French brand, known for its stylish handbags and prèt-a-porter fashion will be serving chilled French champagne, so be sure to pop in for a delicious glass and a toast to la belle vie!
Kiehl’s
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 33
What? This divine American skincare brand are giving away a special gift with every purchase (which also gets your name in the prize draw to win 200€ worth of signature Kiehl’s products (which have been known to work aesthetic miracles).
Replay
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 60
What? This popular international clothing brand will be offering patrons 30% off in store, a goodie bag with each purchase and a quality soundtrack by DJ Adrian.
FURLA
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 59
What? Pop in to enjoy a special evening in store with specially crafted complimentary cocktails, surprise gifts in store and VIP treatment.
COS
Where? Passeig de Gràcia 27
What? The uber sleek minimalist brand COS will be offering a 20% discount in store on all purchases (and we are informed there will be treats, lots of treats!
To get into The Shopping Night Barcelona spirit, give their upbeat playlist on spotify a listen and imagine yourself strutting down Passeig de Gràcia laden with treats, basking in the festive atmosphere! We’ll see you there…
For more information and regular updates check out the event’s official Facebook page.
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