With December 25th just around the corner, it’s time to get into the Christmas spirit and celebrate Navidad – the Spanish word for Christmas. This festive season is not just about presents and decorations, it’s a time to come together with family, friends and loved ones to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. From midnight mass and traditional dishes to colorful parades and lively celebrations, Christmas in Spain is a unique and vibrant experience. Let’s take a closer look at the beautiful traditions and customs of Navidad that make it so special. One of the most iconic images associated with Christmas in Spain is the Nativity scene. It is believed that St Francis of Assisi was the first person to create a Nativity scene in 1223, and this tradition has been carried on for centuries. La Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve, is when the main Christmas celebrations take place in Spain. Families come together to enjoy a large, celebratory dinner that typically includes dishes like roasted lamb, seafood, and meringues. At midnight, people attend the famous ‘Misa del Gallo’ – the Rooster’s Mass. This traditional mass is held to celebrate the birth of Jesus and is named after the rooster because it is believed that, according to folklore, a rooster crowed at midnight when Jesus was born. Another important Christmas tradition in Spain is the ‘El Gordo’ lottery, which is held on December 22nd. It is considered to be the biggest lottery in the world, with millions of people buying tickets every year with high hopes of winning. From the first day of December, the streets in Spain start to light up with beautiful Christmas decorations. The most iconic of these are the nativity scenes displayed in town squares, churches, and other public places. On Christmas day, families get together for a traditional lunch and exchange gifts. Spaniards also celebrate the ‘Dia de los Santos Inocentes’ or the Day of the Innocents, on December 28th, which is similar to April Fool’s Day, where people play practical jokes on each other. The festive celebrations continue until January 6th, which is known as ‘Dia de los Reyes’ or Three Kings Day. This is when Spanish children receive most of their Christmas presents, believed to be delivered by the Three Wise Men. In addition to all these traditional customs, Spain is also famous for its Christmas markets, where people can buy a variety of holiday treats, decorations, and gifts. The most popular market is the ‘Fira de Santa Llúcia’ in Barcelona, which has been around since 1786 and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Christmas in Spain is truly a magical experience, with its unique traditions, delicious food, and festive spirit. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, celebrating Navidad in Spain is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. So this December 25th, let’s join in the fiesta and celebrate Navidad – the Spanish way. Feliz Navidad! Merry Christmas! 
Navidad – A Festive Celebration of Christmas
