The Christmas season is now well and truly upon us – but for those of you settling into a new home in a new country, you may be facing the prospect of an unfamiliar Christmas season. Find out more about how Spaniards celebrate Christmas.
Firstly (and perhaps most importantly if you have children) Spaniards do not have a Santa Claus. Whilst some homes have adopted the tradition, and many ex-pats and the communities they live in will continue to celebrate Christmas with Santa Claus, Spain does not. Instead, they have the Three Kings (Los Reyes Magos).
Another important fact to bear in mind is that the majority of Spain continues as normal on Christmas Day, with many stores and attractions (such as zoos) in the main cities continuing as normal.
Instead, Spain celebrates Christmas on January 6th (known as el Dia de Reyes). The Three Kings are said to bring presents for children (and the adults who are still children at heart). All the major cities hold a Three Kings Parade which consists of floats and the handing out of candy to the children.
If that doesn’t sound like your kind of thing, then maybe you would like to try your hand at the Loteria de Navidad. The world’s biggest lottery is an annual tradition in Spain, with the majority of the country taking part. Who knows, you could have an extra magical Christmas if you’re lucky!
Another tradition to keep an eye for is Día de los Santos Inocentes (Day of the Innocent Saints), which is celebrated on the 28th of December. Much like in the UK, people will trick each other into believing far-fetched stories and pull innocent pranks. Whilst this may seem a light-hearted tradition, it actually commemorates the biblical story of the killing of the innocent children by King Herod.
Spain essentially celebrates an extended version of Christmas, with the festivities starting on the 24th and continuing on into January.
