How to celebrate Christmas and new year in Spain?

The Christmas and New year festivities kick off with Christmas Eve, known as “Nochebuena”, one of the most significant celebrations in Spain. Families gather for a lavish feast that typically includes a variety of dishes such as roast lamb, seafood, and the iconic “turron”, a nougat-like sweet. The Midnight Mass, or “La Misa del Gallo,” is attended by many, with churches adorned in beautiful decorations and candlelit ambiance. After the service, families often continue the festivities with music, dance, and the exchange of gifts. Then, depending on the region, the local “Father Christmas” comes to bring presents to the children. In the Basque Country, for example, it’s the Olentzero who comes. Traditionally, the Olentzero was a coalman who lived high up in the mountains and came down to the villages on the night of 24-25 December to announce the birth of Jesus. Today, the Olentzero also brings presents to good children, but he also punishes bad children by giving them coal. 

“El Día de Navidad”, which means Christmas Day, is a time for relaxation and family bonding in Spain. Many people attend a special Christmas Day Mass and then enjoy a leisurely meal with loved ones. It’s common for families to take a stroll in the crisp winter air, public spaces adorned with holiday lights, and visit friends and neighbors, revelling in the festive atmosphere.

As the year draws to a close, Spaniards eagerly anticipate the arrival of “Nochevieja”, or New Year’s Eve. The tradition of eating 12 grapes for each of the 12 strokes of midnight is a nationwide ritual. Each grape represents a wish for the upcoming months, and the tradition dates back to the late 19th century. Festivities continue into the early morning hours, with lively celebrations, music, and fireworks lighting up the sky.

The holiday season in Spain concludes on January 6th with “Día de Reyes”, or Three Kings’ Day. This day commemorates the arrival of the Three Wise Men who visited the baby Jesus, and it is marked by colorful parades featuring the Kings, music, and elaborate floats. Families come together for a special meal and exchange gifts, mirroring the Magi’s gift-giving tradition.

Tanahis