10 Unique Christmas Traditions In Spain
Expat Tips
Published: 21 October 2020 17:30 CET
Updated: 20 May 2025 11:14 CET
Christmas in Spain: A Season Full of Unique Traditions
Christmas is, for many of us, one of the most magical times of the year. It’s a time when families come together to celebrate, exchange gifts and enjoy long-held traditions. In this respect, Spain is no different to any other country — except it is, thanks to the wonderfully unique and sometimes surprising celebrations that take place throughout December and into the New Year.
Below we explore ten of Spain’s most distinctive and beloved Christmas traditions for you to enjoy.
1. Portal de Belén
A common Christmas tradition seen across the whole of Spain is the Portal de Belén, a nativity scene depicting Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus. Many shops and homes display small figurines of Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus in the manger. Town squares (plazas) often take this even further, creating elaborate full-size installations complete with the Three Wise Men and animals.
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
2. El Gordo – The Christmas Lottery
The famous Christmas lottery, Lotería Nacional de Navidad — better known as El Gordo (“The Fat One”) — is held on 22nd December each year. In 2019 the total prize fund reached a staggering €2.38 billion, making it the biggest national lottery in the world. Almost every Spaniard buys a ticket, often sharing a décimo (tenth of a ticket) with friends, family or coworkers.
The draw is broadcast live on TV throughout the morning, with school children singing the winning numbers — a uniquely Spanish sound that marks the true start of the festive season.
3. Cabalgata de Reyes Magos – The Three Kings Parade
On the evening of January 5th, towns and cities across Spain host the spectacular Cabalgata de Reyes Magos. Colourful floats, dancers and musicians parade through the streets as the Three Kings throw sweets to excited children lining the pavements. It is one of Spain’s most cherished holiday celebrations and an experience no visitor should miss.
Image Credit: Ateneo de Sevilla, CC BY-SA 3.0
4. There Is No Santa Claus
Traditionally, Spain did not celebrate Father Christmas. Instead, Spanish children waited until 6th January to receive gifts from the Reyes Magos — the Three Wise Men. This meant an extra twelve days of anticipation after Christmas Day!
However, many modern families now celebrate both traditions, with children receiving presents on Christmas Day as well as on Three Kings Day (Día de Reyes).
5. Olentzero – The Basque Santa Claus
In the Basque Country, Christmas has its own legendary gift-giver: Olentzero, a pipe-smoking giant dressed in traditional peasant clothing. On 24th December he parades through Bilbao and other Basque towns before delivering gifts to children on Christmas Eve — a regional twist on the Santa Claus story.
6. Christmas Food Traditions
Spanish Christmas food is an event in itself. Unlike in the UK, families typically enjoy their main festive meal on Christmas Eve. Serrano ham is a must, along with fish and seafood — especially king prawns. For dessert, there’s turrón (almond nougat) and the iconic Roscón de Reyes, a ring-shaped cake topped with candied fruit and filled with whipped cream.
Tradition says the person who finds the hidden toy becomes “king” for the day, while the person who finds the bean must pay for next year’s cake!
Image Credit: RataMala Flickr
7. New Year’s Eve Grapes
Grapes play a central role in the New Year celebrations. At midnight on 31st December, people across Spain attempt to eat one grape for each of the twelve chimes of the clock — a tradition believed to bring good luck for the year ahead.
Every supermarket sells pre-packed portions of twelve grapes, often in a plastic champagne flute. Legend says that failing to eat all twelve before the final chime results in a year of bad luck — so don’t tempt fate!
8. Caga Tió – The Pooping Log
In Catalonia, one of the quirkiest Christmas traditions comes in the form of Caga Tió — the “pooping log”. Decorated with a face, hat and blanket, the log is “fed” throughout December. On Christmas Day, children beat it with sticks while singing traditional songs, prompting it to “poop” sweets and gifts.
Image Credit: Sirexkat on Flickr
9. Día de los Santos Inocentes – Spain’s April Fools’ Day
On 28th December, Spain celebrates its own version of April Fools’ Day, known as Día de los Santos Inocentes. Expect jokes, playful pranks and plenty of laughter — all in good spirit during the festive season.
10. Midnight Mass – La Misa del Gallo
Given Spain’s strong Catholic heritage, many families attend midnight mass after their Christmas Eve meal. This special service, known as Misa del Gallo (“Rooster Mass”), commemorates the birth of Jesus and remains one of the country’s most important religious Christmas traditions.
Final Thoughts
Spanish Christmas celebrations blend centuries-old customs with regional folklore and modern family traditions. From the excitement of El Gordo to the magic of the Three Kings Parade, each part of the holiday season reflects Spain’s cultural warmth, community spirit and love of celebration. Feliz Navidad y próspero año nuevo!
FAQs About Christmas Traditions in Spain
Do Spanish children believe in Santa Claus?
Traditionally, gifts were brought by the Three Kings on 6th January. However, many families now celebrate both Santa Claus and the Reyes Magos.
What day do Spaniards eat their main Christmas meal?
Most families enjoy their festive meal on Christmas Eve, not Christmas Day.
Why do people in Spain eat 12 grapes on New Year’s Eve?
Each grape represents good luck for one month of the coming year — but you must eat all twelve before the final bell chimes!
Is the Caga Tió tradition real?
Yes — and it’s hugely popular in Catalonia. Children still beat the decorated log to “release” sweets on Christmas Day.
When do Spanish children usually receive their presents?
Traditionally on 6th January for Three Kings Day, though many now receive some gifts on Christmas Day as well.
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