Christmas Traditions in Spain
In this article we are going to show you which are the Christmas traditions in Spain that make us different from the rest of the countries in this magical time of the year.
As in many countries, different traditions are celebrated during Christmas that are unique to each country. In Spain, the Christmas period extends from December 24 to January 6, and during these 14 days different Christmas traditions are carried out, some depending on the region where you are.
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INDEX
1. La LoterĂa de Navidad (Christmas Lottery)
Photo: Las Provincias official website
The season kicks off with one of the most anticipated events of the year—El Gordo, or “The Fat One”—Spain’s Christmas Lottery. Held on December 22, it’s one of the oldest and largest lotteries in the world. Entire families, groups of friends, or even entire neighborhoods often pitch in to buy tickets, making it a collective experience. For many Spaniards, watching the televised singing of the lottery numbers is as much a tradition as the lottery itself. Â
2. Belén Displays (Nativity Scenes)
Nativity scenes, or belenes, are an essential part of Spanish Christmas decorations. But these are far from your typical store-bought sets. Spaniards take immense pride in crafting intricate and elaborate belén displays featuring detailed figurines, running water, and even lights. Cities like Madrid and Seville host belén fairs, where artisans showcase their work. They’re truly a spectacle worth marveling at!
3. La Nochebuena (Christmas Eve)
Most Spaniards consider Christmas Eve, or “La Nochebuena“, (December 24 at night) more important than Christmas Day itself. Families gather for a lavish feast, often featuring regional specialties like roast lamb, seafood, and turrĂłn (a traditional nougat made of almonds).
4. The Feast of the Holy Innocents (El DĂa de los Santos Inocentes)
On December 28, Spain celebrates “El DĂa de los Santos Inocentes“, a day marked by pranks and lighthearted mischief similar to April Fool’s Day. People play tricks on friends and family, and some even share fake news articles for fun. If you’re in Spain on this day someone might try to pull a joke on you! Â
5. The Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes)
Photo: Madrid’s Town Hall official website
Forget Santa Claus—the true icons of Spanish Christmas are the Three Kings. On the night of January 5, vibrant parades, known as “Cabalgatas“, take over the streets of cities and villages. The Three Kings (Melchor, Gaspar, and Balthasar), throw candies to the kids as a small gift. The event is a favorite not only for children also for adults. Â
6. RoscĂłn de Reyes (Three Kings Cake)
On January 6, is the day when children receive their presents, delivered by the Three Kings instead of Santa Claus and families gather to celebrate “El DĂa de los Reyes Magos“ (Epiphany) with roscĂłn de Reyes, a ring-shaped sweet bread.
This “giant donut” is often topped with candied fruits and filled with whipped cream or custard, the cake contains two surprises—a small figurine and a fava bean. Tradition dictates that whoever finds the figurine gets to be “king” for the day, while the unlucky person who finds the bean must buy next year’s roscĂłn.
7. Caga TiĂł (The Pooping Log)
Photo: Gardeneas official website
Primarily observed in Catalonia, Caga TiĂł is a quirky and delightful tradition. Families decorate a hollow log with a smiling face and a red hat, “feeding” it small treats in the run-up to Christmas. On Christmas Eve, children gather to sing songs and “beat” the log with sticks, prompting it to “poop” candies and gifts. It’s a fun and uniquely Catalan way of celebrating.
8. Midnight Grapes on New Year’s Eve
Photo: As official website
While not exclusively a Christmas tradition, the “Midnight Grapes” on New Year’s Eve is an integral part of the holiday season. At the stroke of midnight, Spaniards eat 12 grapes in quick succession—one for each chime of the clock. Successfully eating all 12 grapes, it is done in order to have a good start to the new year.
9. Festive Street Decorations and Markets
Spanish cities come alive during the holiday season with dazzling lights and Christmas markets. Madrid’s Plaza Mayor and Barcelona’s Fira de Santa Llúcia are two of the most popular spots, offering everything from artisan crafts and ornaments to delicious seasonal treats. These markets exude a festive ambiance that’s perfect for soaking in the Christmas cheer.