Christmas Celebrations in Spain
Christmas celebrations in Spain are unique. There is a particular Christmas tradition that is found only in Spain. This custom is known as ‘Hogueras’. This custom traces its origin to the pre-Christian era. ‘Hogueras’means ‘bonfires’.
In ‘Hogueras’, people jump over bonfires. This is oftentimes regarded as a protection against diseases and bad luck.
Christmas decorations in Spain
Christmas decorations in Spain revolve around the ‘Scene’and not around the Christmas tree. Decorating the Nativity scene is known as “Nacimento”.
Most of the Spanish houses have fir trees, which they decorate with pictures and stars. Decorating fir trees with pictures of angels and saints are quite common.
Christmas Eve celebrations in Spain
Christmas Eve in Spain is known as La Noche Buena. People light oil lamps when the first star appears in the sky. Churches hold prayer services and you will find many carol or choir singers in your neighborhood.
Streets are filled with spectators who gather to watch the dancers and the singers. Special Christmas dance referred to as “Jota” is enjoyed by all. Dancers tap their feet to the rhythm of castanets and guitars. Christmas Eve in Spain is also known as ‘Eve Nochebuena’, the meaning of which is Good-Night.
Christmas treat in Spain
Christmas treat is known as “turon”. It is made of almonds and candy. Dinner is
Christmas Day (Navidad) events in Spain
The midnight ‘turon’, traditional dance ‘Jota’, and Eve Nochebuena’are pre-cursors to the actual Christmas celebrations in Spain. ‘Navidad’is the name given to Christmas Day in Spain. Although the entire day is spent offering prayers and attending prayer services at the churches, as the day dawns, you will find people gearing up for the parties and feast.
Visiting friends and loved ones is common. Gifts are exchanged. Christmas dishes are prepared in every household.
‘Swinging’– A Christmas tradition in Spain
Swinging is one of the customs that is practiced only in Spain in Christmas. Young people swing on swing sets. These sets are built especially for this occasion. It is one of the oldest Christmas traditions in Spain and is practiced till date. This event is accompanied by dancing and singing.
Gifts from Three Wise Men
It is generally believed that Santa gets all the gifts for the children. But there is an older belief among the Spanish people. They believe that the 3 Wise Men are responsible for getting the presents for children and everyone. These gifts are brought by 3 Wise Men on the 6th day of January, which is observed as the day of Epiphany.
Children usually hang their shoes filled with straw and wait for the 3 Wise Men. It is believed that the straw serves as refreshment for the camels on which the 3 Wise Men travel.
Last updated on 17/11/2010
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