Christmas in Spain: Traditions, Culture & Gastronomy

Christmas in Spain is much more than just lights and presents: it’s an experience full of tradition, warmth and joy that is experienced in every corner of the country. Whether you love vibrant big cities or charming seaside towns, Spain’s diversity ensures you’ll find the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday season.

Many are the foreigners who think that Christmas in Spain has no potential, while the Spaniards themselves highlight these dates to travel around the country or stay in their homelands, as they value them above any other place.

Therefore, in this article we will delve into these important dates that fill many homes with joy and peace. Stay to learn about new places, traditions, cultures and gastronomies!

The Magic of Christmas: Family, Spirit and Carols

Christmas, whose name comes from the Latin nativitas (birth), has its origins in the commemoration of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. Although its roots are religious, this holiday has expanded to include cultural and family customs that celebrate togetherness, hope and generosity.

In Spain, Christmas is a time to reconnect with what really matters: family, friends and the little joys of life. Every tradition, from Christmas carols to nativity scenes, holds a special magic that is passed down from generation to generation. That is why it is considered one of the most important dates of the year.

The Christmas spirit is universal, but in every corner of the world it is experienced differently. In Spain, the mixture of history, culture and human warmth makes these dates an unforgettable experience. It is a time to enjoy the art of sharing, the taste of traditional dishes and the beauty of cities and towns dressed in lights.

And why is Christmas so magical? Because it is a time when everything seems possible: the joy of children waiting for gifts from the Three Wise Men, the streets full of lights and songs, and that feeling of renewal that reminds us that a new year is about to begin. It even makes us forget the bitterness to give way to love.

Key Dates of the Spanish Christmas: A Journey of Illusion and Tradition

Christmas in Spain is a celebration that lasts for weeks, beginning in December and extending until Three Kings Day in January.

22.12 The Christmas Lottery: "El Gordo".

The famous “El Gordo” is not just a drawing, but the beginning of the Christmas celebrations. Families share tickets and wait together, creating an atmosphere of unity and hope. It is already considered a tradition for Spaniards, where they buy tickets estimated at 20 euros each and choose the numbers that attract the most luck.

Many of them choose to buy these tickets in different places in Spain, so they can travel and take a great souvenir of some place.

As a fun fact, some numbers have their own nickname. Some examples can be: 15 is the pretty girl, 22 is the ducklings (ducks), 75 is the cat, 81 is the marriage, 17 is the sailboat, and up to 100 numbers with very funny nicknames!

If you want to cheer up, all you have to do is go to a local Lotería y Apuestas del Estado, or you can even find them in some restaurants and bars in Spain. Remember that you will only be able to buy tickets until December 21. Good luck with “El Gordo”!

24.12 Christmas Eve: Lunch With Friends & Dinner With Family

This is one of the most anticipated dates for many Spaniards, as it combines the best of life: gastronomy, friends and family.

In the case of friends, a meal is planned in a nice area of the city to share tapas, montaditos and drinks among the people at the table. Along with this, live music provided by the area is added. You can even enjoy a great show offered by restaurants, town halls or other organizations. It all kicks off the best day of the year!

Then, after a good meal comes the family dinner, where people who have not seen each other for a long time meet again. It is a special occasion that unites the family, bringing love, peace and harmony.

Christmas Eve dinner is where the best Spanish gastronomy appears, from starters marked by seafood to incredible main courses such as roast lamb or stuffed turkey. And as far as drinks are concerned, the best national wines, cavas or Asturian ciders are enjoyed. Everything depends on the tastes of each house, but the important thing is to put love.

25.12 Christmas: A Journey to the Heart

In Spain it is a day dedicated to family and tranquility. After the intense Christmas Eve dinner, this day is usually spent with lunch in the company of loved ones. Many families take the opportunity to get together again, exchange gifts and enjoy a special meal that, although similar to the previous night, often includes lighter dishes or traditional recipes that vary according to the region.

It is also a day when spirituality takes center stage for those who attend the Midnight Mass or morning religious ceremonies. Cities and towns, decorated with lights and nativity scenes, tend to be quieter, which makes this date the perfect time to stroll and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere calmly.

In places like Costa Blanca, the mild weather invites you to take a stroll along the beach or visit Christmas markets, while in the north of the country, snowfall creates a perfect setting for those looking for a day of games and family fun. Christmas in Spain combines the warmth of tradition with the joy of sharing, offering an unforgettable day for locals and visitors alike.

28.12 April Fool's Day and The Tradition of Els Enfarinats

A special day that blends tradition, history and humor. Although it originally commemorates a biblical episode, over time it has evolved into a day of pranks and fun, similar to April Fool’s Day in other countries. During this day, it is common for people to play little pranks, tell far-fetched stories or post fake news to laugh and share funny moments with friends and family.

In the town of Ibi, in Alicante, this date takes on a unique character with the celebration of“Els Enfarinats“, one of the most peculiar and colorful traditions of the region. This event has been celebrated for more than 200 years, transforming the town into a real battlefield of flour, eggs and firecrackers. The participants, divided into two groups, simulate a confrontation in which “els enfarinats” symbolically take control of the town hall, establishing absurd laws and charging “fines” for fun.

Els Enfarinats is a tradition full of symbolism and joy that attracts visitors from far and wide. The mixture of humor, tradition and the participation of the whole community makes this event unforgettable and a perfect reflection of Spain’s festive and creative character.

31.12 New Year's Eve: Bidding farewell to the year

New Year’s Eve in Spain is a magical night in which tradition and celebration come together to bid farewell to the year and welcome the next with hope and joy. One of the most deeply rooted customs is to eat twelve grapes to the rhythm of the chimes, a practice that dates back to 1909, when farmers in Alicante and Murcia promoted this tradition to promote the consumption of grapes after a particularly abundant harvest.

Today, this custom symbolizes the wishes of prosperity for the next twelve months and is performed in practically every home and square in the country.

Among the most popular places to celebrate New Year’s Eve is Madrid’s Puerta del Sol, where thousands of people gather in front of the iconic clock to experience the chimes in a vibrant and festive atmosphere. In Barcelona, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is illuminated with light shows and music, while in cities like Valencia or Seville, tradition is mixed with parties in main squares and celebrations full of joy. On the Costa Blanca, the milder climate invites you to enjoy outdoor dining on terraces and in restaurants, with towns such as Alicante, Benidorm and Torrevieja offering special events and fireworks.

In other places, such as the Catalan Pyrenees, it is celebrated surrounded by mountains and snow, providing tranquility and peace. In Spain, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Eve can be experienced in any type of weather: snowy, rainy, sunny or even cloudy.

01.01 New Year, New Goals!

It is a day marked by calm and reflection after the intense celebrations of New Year’s Eve. It is a day dedicated mainly to family and rest, with a late breakfast that usually includes churros with hot chocolate, a deeply rooted tradition to recover energy.

For those looking for more dynamic activities, many cities and towns celebrate unique events. For example, in some coastal locations such as Alicante or Benidorm, the bravest participate in the traditional New Year’s swim, a plunge into the sea that symbolizes renewal and good omen. In Madrid, some people opt for a stroll in the Retiro Park or a visit to the city center, which, although quieter, retains the festive atmosphere of Christmas lights and decorations.

This day is usually used to recover energy and reflect with the best walks and the best views. Therefore, many Spaniards move to beach areas such as Costa Blanca, or mountain and snow areas such as the Catalan Pyrenees, Aragon or even Andorra.

05.01 The Three Wise Men: Magic and Tradition In Spain

Actually, this holiday is composed of two parts: The Nights of the Cavalcade (January 5) and the Day of the Three Kings (January 6). But we consider that both are important to know and understand for our readers… Let’s go there!

This is one of the most loved and awaited festivities in Spain, especially by children. This tradition is based on the biblical story of the three wise men from the East -Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar- who, guided by a star, arrived in Bethlehem to offer gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus. For centuries, Spain has celebrated this day as the great day of gifts, making the Three Wise Men the true protagonists of Spanish Christmas, no offense to Santa Claus!

On the night of January 5, the streets of cities and towns are filled with magic with the Cabalgata de Reyes, a parade in which the Three Kings ride through the towns on majestic floats -or even on camels-, accompanied by pages and artists who throw candy to the public. This event, full of lights, music and colors, captivates both children and adults, creating a unique atmosphere of illusion. Some of the most outstanding parades are held in Madrid, Barcelona and Alicante, but every corner of Spain has its own special version of this enchanting parade.

The morning of January 6 begins with excitement, when children wake up to discover the gifts that the Kings have left next to their shoes, a tradition that is prepared the night before with letters full of wishes and water or candy for the camels. It is also a day of family reunion, in which the Roscón de Reyes, a typical sweet in the form of a donut that hides inside a figurine of a King and a bean: whoever finds the figure will be “crowned” with a paper crown, while whoever discovers the bean will have to pay the next year’s roscón.

Finally, Three Kings Day marks the end of the Christmas celebrations in Spain, leaving an unforgettable memory in all those who live it.

The Best Destinations To Experience Christmas In Spain

After understanding and getting to know the Spanish culture and tradition at Christmas, it is time to recommend the best destinations to visit in Spain during these important dates.

The Spanish capital combines the magic of traditions with the energy of a big city. The Christmas market in the Plaza Mayor is a must, where you can find everything from figures for nativity scenes to typical sweets. In addition, Madrid is famous for its Christmas lighting, with guided tours to enjoy its lights, such as those on Gran Vía or Paseo del Prado. Do not miss the monumental Nativity Scene in the Royal Palace or the Cortylandia show for the little ones.

Barcelona celebrates Christmas with Mediterranean flair and a mix of unique local traditions, such as the Caga Tió, a trunk that funnily ejects gifts for children. The city has emblematic Christmas markets, such as Santa Llúcia in front of the Cathedral, and its Christmas decorations light up streets such as Paseo de Gracia. In addition, the proximity to the sea gives the celebrations a different feel, ideal for those looking to combine traditions with a milder climate.

In southern Spain, Seville offers a warm Christmas in every sense of the word. The streets are illuminated with spectacular decorations, and its Christmas market in Plaza Nueva is a perfect place to find unique handcrafted products. In addition, performances of carol choirs with a flamenco style add a special touch to the festivities, creating an atmosphere full of life and joy. This is a place with incredible tapas, which is important to remember.

On the Costa Blanca, Alicante offers a different kind of Christmas, with pleasant temperatures that allow you to enjoy outdoor activities. Highlights include its Christmas market and its imposing Nativity Scene on the Esplanade of Spain, as well as special events such as the tour of lights on Avenida Maisonnave. Christmas is lived with a Mediterranean touch, where the sea and the festivities combine to perfection, so don’t forget to visit the Castle of Santa Barbara!

Murcia shines at Christmas, with its imposing Christmas tree in the Plaza Circular, while the Gran Via dazzles with lights and decorations that invite you to stroll and enjoy its stores. The Garden of Dreams and the Christmas market located on Paseo Malecón are a must-see for their incredible atmosphere. The famous Route of the Nativity Scenes, with jewels such as the Nativity Scene of the Salzillo Museum, shows the majestic Murcian and Spanish tradition.

Cartagena combines its rich history with a Christmas atmosphere. The old town is decked out with lights and decorations, and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento becomes an epicenter of festive activities. Here you will enjoy Christmas markets full of handcrafted products, concerts and shows. There are also events with carol performances and nativity scene exhibitions. In addition, its climate allows you to enjoy walks along the port and the Roman Amphitheater.

In recent years, Vigo has earned a reputation as one of the most impressive Christmas destinations in Europe. Its extravagant Christmas decorations, with millions of lights, transform the city into a spectacle worthy of fairy tales. The main streets, such as Príncipe, are filled with Christmas markets, music and activities for everyone. Other highlights include Gallery Selfie and the Christmas Circus in the Coia neighborhood.

One of the most visited cities in southern Spain during Christmas. This is due to the beautiful views of the Alhambra of Granada, also observable from the Mirador de San Nicolas. You can visit the Plaza Bib-Rambla where there are some incredible Christmas markets and exhibitions of the Nativity Scene. We can not forget Sierra Nevada, the only ski resort located in southern Spain, a city with a thousand possibilities!

A city located in the north of Spain, where you can enjoy the Cantabrian Sea and the beautiful Paseo de La Concha, where you can see a Giant Ferris Wheel. During the Christmas period, you can visit the beautiful Nativity Scene in the Plaza Gipuzkoa. It is also advisable to visit the Santo Tomás Fair located in the Plaza de la Constitución. And, next to the Urumea River, there are the Christmas markets and the Craft Fair.

You can take a look at other destinations such as...

Christmas in Spain: An Unforgettable Experience

Christmas in Spain is not just a time of year, it is an experience that is lived with all the senses. From the traditions that pass from generation to generation, to the illuminated destinations full of magic, this season invites you to connect with the authentic, enjoy the present and create unforgettable memories.

If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating a different kind of holiday, full of culture, history and warmth, Spain is waiting for you with open arms. And in Costa Blanca, with its Mediterranean landscapes and mild climate, you will find the perfect setting to combine the peace of winter with the joy of Christmas.

In Antaal Life, we want to help you find your ideal place in Costa Blanca to enjoy these dates, either through a holiday home for a unique holiday or a home in which to start new traditions. The magic of Christmas is in every corner of Spain, but making it yours is our specialty.

Before you go, we recommend you to visit our article: “Costa Blanca: A Year Round Destination“. Click on the text highlighted in red to see a new side of Costa Blanca.

This year, live Christmas like never before. Spain and Costa Blanca have a lot to offer, do you dare to discover it?