If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how folks in Spain do Christmas, here’s what you need to know: it’s not like the holiday season in the USA. Spanish Christmas is something entirely different—like stepping into another world where centuries of culture collide with mouth-watering food and traditions that make you think, “Well, why don’t we do that?” It’s about taking it slow, laughing around the table, and savoring every bite of tantalizing tapas. Curious? Read on to uncover what Spanish Christmas is all about.
1. Christmas Begins with a Lottery, Not a Tree
Sure, most people start the holiday season with carols or a decorated tree. Not in Spain. Here, December 22nd is all about El Gordo—The Fat One, the biggest lottery in the world. The whole country watches on as schoolchildren sing out numbers on national TV.
Yes, it sounds a bit strange—and it is—but that’s the charm. Win or lose, it’s just a reason to gather with loved ones, devour appetizers, and toast to good luck. The whole day has this buzz in the air, like life nudging you to savor the moment.
2. Nativity Scenes In Abundance
Spanish nativity scenes, or belenes, are an art form. Forget a simple manger with a couple of sheep—here, you’ll see miniature villages complete with market vendors, rivers, and hills. People in Spain take these seriously, and you’ll see them everywhere from shop windows to houses and beyond.
3. Nochebuena: The Big Feast
In Spain, Christmas Eve, known as Nochebuena, is the big day of celebration. Christmas Day is not. You can do as you please on December 25th but on the 24th, be ready for a huge family meal followed by an all-evening party.
Let’s be clear about one thing: people in Spain do not eat turkey at Christmas. Instead, they prefer fresh seafood, which includes prawns, clams, lobster, and unbelievably delicious jamón ibérico. Cava, their very own bubbly champagne from Catalonia, flows freely, keeping everyone in good spirits. By dessert, turrón makes its appearance, a sweet, nutty treat that wraps up the night perfectly.
4. When the Clock Strikes Midnight
If you think dessert is the end of the night, think again. Not in Spain. After dinner, out come the guitars and tambourines, and villancicos (carols) are sung with both heart and skill. Sometimes, these celebrations can spill out into the streets, with spontaneous dancing and Christmas drinks in hand. It’s loud, fun, and the kind of night you’ll be sure to remember for years to come.
5. The Three Kings Rule in January
While much of the world is trying to get back to normal life, Spain keeps the spirit alive until January 6th: Día de los Reyes, or Three Kings Day. On January 5th, towns light up with parades where the Kings throw sweets to cheering crowds. The next morning, kids wake up and open gifts. Later in the day, everyone will enjoy a feast of Roscón de Reyes, a cake hiding a King figurine and a dried bean. Get the king, and you’re the champ for the day. Get the bean, and you’re, quite frankly, the opposite.
6. Every Region Does It Differently
Spain is a patchwork of cultures, and each region brings its own twist to Christmas. In the Basque Country, there’s Olentzero, a coal-smudged character who delivers gifts, kind of like a rugged Santa who works all day. Down south in Andalusia, Christmas carols are sung with a Flamenco flair. Everywhere, there’s a unique blend of ancient customs and a willingness to embrace the moment, whatever it holds.
Must-Try Spanish Christmas Recipes
Christmas in Spain is also about flavors that grab you by the taste buds and don’t let go. First up, Cod in Salsa Verde, a dish of tender cod fillets bathed in a garlic-and-herb-infused green sauce. It’s seafood magic, best enjoyed with crusty bread.
Next, Papas Arrugadas with Mojo Picón, those salty, wrinkled Canarian potatoes that pair perfectly with a fiery, tangy red sauce. Spicy, addictive, unforgettable.
Finally, Presa Ibérica Sevilla Style, a beautifully marbled cut of pork, seared until juicy and rich, served with a bold, meal-transforming sauce. These dishes don’t just taste good; they taste like Spain, like Christmas done right.
Make Your Christmas a Little More Spanish
If this has got your mouth watering, why not bring some Spanish flair to your table? A splash of salsa brava on potatoes or salsa sevillana over roasted veggies, and you’ll get a taste of Spain in a jiffy.
So, while you’re pouring your mulled wine and carving the turkey, think of Spain—a place where the food is bold, the traditions unforgettable, and the Christmas spirit is as lively and joyful as life itself. Feliz Navidad!
