<ul><li>Spending Christmas in Spain is an extraordinary experience.</li><li>From the middle of December through January 6, there are various religious services and celebrations.</li><li>There is a massive lottery with a prize pool of several billion euros, magnificent nativity displays, many delicious cuisines, and one of the largest New Year's Eve festivities you will likely witness.</li><li>Traditional candies like marzipan and turrón, a delicacy made of ground almonds and honey, can be seen in supermarkets as early as October.</li><li>But December marks the beginning of the fascinating occurrences.</li><li>The first thing that a tourist to Spain will notice is that Christmas is not as commercialised as it is in many other western nations.</li><li>Christmas lights are typically turned on in major cities around the first week of December, when stores are also fully loaded with Christmas goods.</li><li>Nothing like the United States and the United Kingdom, where the end of summer signals the beginning of the Christmas season.</li><li>Christmas trees are commonly found in homes but do not typically appear until the second half of December.</li><li>Additionally, the residence contains intricate miniature Nativity scenes known as Belénes that reflect life in the village where Jesus was born.</li><li>The Belén always includes the infant Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, as well as Balthasar, Melchior, and Gaspar, the Three Kings.</li><li>Spain has old-world mysticism and modern cool, and there is always something new to discover.&nbsp;</li><li>Holidays to Spain offer a world-class cultural and gastronomic destination with one foot in the traditional past and the other in the contemporary present. Our Holiday Vibes are Good Vibes Only!&nbsp;</li></ul>

sneak peak

<ul><li>Numerous public areas have Christmas markets that sell small presents, ornaments, and snacks. Due to its distinctive Catalan Christmas traditions, Barcelona is one of the top cities in Spain for Christmas markets.</li><li>Christmas Eve is celebrated with the season's largest meal, Christmas supper. Traditionally, Christmas Eve dinner is the largest meal of the year. Pavo trufado, turkey filled with truffles, was a popular meal in the past.&nbsp;</li><li>Now, the only rule for Christmas Eve dinner is that everyone must eat properly. Lobster is particularly prevalent, and a roast, typically lamb or suckling pig, is required. In addition, most households will provide soup, typically fish stew, and an abundance of seafood, cheeses, hams, and pates.</li><li>Visit a Nativity Scene as the Spanish go all out with their Bethlehem-themed displays, known in Spanish as Belenes. The scenery encompasses the entirety of Bethlehem, including its population and the surrounding landscape.</li><li>On New Year's Eve, you must consume 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight. In Spain, this is both a custom and a superstition. You wouldn't want to jeopardise your good fortune for the following year by skipping the grapes, one for each tick of midnight.</li><li>If you want to be active, move to a larger city. Because much of Spain shut down over Christmas, you'll need to visit one of the larger towns to guarantee activities. Try Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, or Seville.</li><li>You can arrange a trip to the seashore for a warmer holiday. At Christmas, the southern coast of Spain will be the hottest, but you shouldn't expect beach weather. Spain's best spots for winter sun are the Costa del Sol and the Canary Islands.</li><li>Christmas and winter sports go together. A white Christmas is unlikely in the cities of Spain. The location most likely to experience a white Christmas is a ski resort, notably in the Pyrenees. Burgos and Leon are the coldest cities in Spain, with Cuenca close following, but it rarely snows there.</li></ul>

highlight

<ul><li>Depending on where in Spain you are in December, the climate differs drastically.</li><li>On the one hand, you may ski through the Sierra Nevada's snow-capped mountains; on the other, you can relax on a Caribbean-like beach.</li><li>The decision is yours! As the year comes to a close, December is the month for Christmas celebrations around the nation.</li><li>Imagine being filled with lively spirits, vibrant lights, and extensive celebrations everywhere you walk.</li><li>There is nothing better than a Spanish Christmas season. The abundance of Christmas markets around Spain in December is one of the most enjoyable aspects of December in Spain.</li><li>These marketplaces are abundant with items for sale, delicious snacks, and hot beverages.</li><li>In the holidays, you might find the best (and biggest) ones in Barcelona or Seville, but many smaller towns also have them.</li></ul>

seasons to travel

The Christmas market hosted by Nervion in Seville gives guests an experience rich with art, culture, and entertainment to get them in the holiday spirit. You can anticipate dramatic street exhibitions, performances in the back of cabins, and beautifully painted wooden booths. In addition, there will be musical choirs, nativity displays, and an abundance of delicious snacks. Grab some churros, stocking stuffers, and creative Andalusian presents to warm your numb hands this holiday season.

Seville

christmas markets

If you haven't gone to Barcelona since you moved there, the holiday season is a beautiful opportunity to go there for the first time. The winter weather is mild by European standards, so you may enjoy strolling around the Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter and observing the strange Gaudi architecture. Fira de Santa Lucia is the oldest and most significant European Christmas market. It was established in 1786 when the Barcelona people purchased Christmas trees, decorations, and Nativity sets (in Spanish). Open November 30 - December 23 from 10:30 - 22:30 in Plaza de la Catedral. Sundays are extended till 21:30.&nbsp;If you're interested in nativity scenes or want to witness something unusual, visit the Belén viviente de Corbera de Llobregat, only 30 minutes outside Barcelona. This Nativity scene is the most popular in the province, with around 250 participants, only on weekends between November 30 and December 12. Christmas Decorations This year, Barcelona will be illuminated with more lights than ever, especially on Las Ramblas, el Paseo de Gracia, and la Diagonal. We recommend enjoying a nice beverage on the terrace of the Hotel Condes, which offers breathtaking views of a lit-up Barcelona. The Torre Agbar is another excellent location for seeing the light show.

Barcelona

Málaga has selected Spain as the most acceptable place to spend the Christmas holidays in 2012. Málaga, like Barcelona and Madrid, has its light show, accompanied by groups of Christmas carolers renowned throughout Andalucia. Every day at 6:30 p.m., 600,000 lights will be activated along Larios Street. Málaga also offers excellent Christmas markets, but the city's highlights occur on January 5, when the entire town closes down for the Procession of the Three Kings. To obtain a decent view, you must analyse their path and be prepared for a large crowd and much noise. It begins at precisely 5 p.m. on January 5.

Málaga

Valencia welcomes Christmas visitors with pleasant weather, authentic paella, and a spectacular light show. The Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Calle San Vicente Martir, and Calle La Paz are elegantly adorned. Nativity scenes, food markets, and chestnut roasting stands are among the city's highlights. Make sure to sample Valencia's signature turrones, marzipan, and polvorones. One of the best places to test them is at one of the many Christmas markets, such as Plaza de la Reina, the largest and only one organised by local craftsmen. Remember that Madrid and Barcelona are just an AVE ride from Valencia, and the Mediterranean is within swimming distance.

Valencia

Christmas in the Spanish capital is among the greatest in the country, with its famous Christmas markets (be sure to visit Plaza Mayor) and one of the country's largest and finest displays of nativity scenes at City Hall. The Conde Duque cultural centre is transformed into a family-friendly circus, theatre, concert hall, and workshops during the holiday season. Don't miss the magnificent Christmas choirs and performances conducted in numerous churches throughout the city if you appreciate music. A unique double-decker bus in Madrid will take you on a tour of the streets with the brightest Christmas lights in the town. Wear warm clothes, especially if you plan on taking in the scenery from the peak. The Plaza de Colón, another must-see place with a giant Christmas tree in Sol, is serviced by buses every 15 minutes. The Procession of the Three Kings is another Christmas tradition in Madrid. Imagine Carnival in Brazil without the topless samba dancing. Visit El Matadero for a more artistic and trendy Christmas atmosphere.

Madrid

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<ul><li>Nativity scenes, often known as beliefs, are familiar in Spanish cities and houses.</li><li>The nativity scene usually includes figurines of Mary, Joseph, the infant Jesus, and the three kings, Balthasar, Melchior, and Gaspar, despite their varying sizes.</li><li>Others place a modest nativity scene next to their Christmas tree.</li><li>They are typically displayed in Plaza Mayors or in front of churches in virtually every town and village in Spain.</li><li>Although this is not a Spanish tradition (it started to be used in Germany around the 16th Century).</li><li>It isn't easy to pinpoint when the first decorated Christmas tree emerged in Spain, but the first public tree was placed near the Prado museum in Madrid in 1870.</li><li>Today, many families prepare the Belen and the Christmas tree, which has become increasingly popular due to its decorative significance. So indeed, the Christmas tree is also used today in Spain.</li><li>In Spain, Christmas songs constitute a significant component of the holiday season.</li><li>These traditional tunes are villancicos, and youngsters sing them throughout this time of year.</li><li>In the Middle Ages, villancicos originated as a lyrical and musical style.</li><li>Today, the word refers to the traditional Spanish and Latin American Christmas carols.</li><li>The majority of villancicos are religious. In the south of Spain, flamenco is particularly prevalent in the rhythm of very melodic songs.</li><li>Pandereta and zambomba are typical instruments for this Spanish Christmas ritual.</li></ul>

culture and tradition

Spanish people love their charcuterie, such as ham, chorizo, and morcilla (black pudding), and Christmas is no different. Those who have spent even a brief amount of time in Spain are aware of this fact. Entremeses are platters of cured pork served at the beginning of a Spanish Christmas meal. Consider it an appetiser that, besides the finest Spanish "jamón," will likely include a selection of regional cheeses.

Entremeses

In Spain's Castile and Leon regions, Cochinillo (suckling pig) is a traditional Christmas dish that frequently takes centre stage at the Christmas Eve supper, although lamb is favoured in some areas. The beef is grilled on the big day until the skin is crispy and dark brown. Usually, this tender beef is eaten with potatoes and caramelised onions that cook alongside it.

Suckling pig

Eating is a year-round priority in Spain, and no cost is spared on special occasions like Christmas. In light of this, it is highly customary to see big seafood spreads for Christmas Eve dinner, particularly in coastal regions like Galicia; whether a shrimp cocktail or a fantastic lobster main course, seafood is a staple at most Spanish Christmas celebrations.

Seafood

Galets is a Christmas soup commonly consumed in Catalonia this time of year. Galets are traditionally served on Christmas Eve. This hearty winter soup is made with a meaty broth and has giant pasta shells known as galettes, often stuffed with meat. The soup is prepared using a traditional French method.

Galets

Although marzipan is consumed year-round in Toledo, a city just south of Madrid, it has become a symbol of Christmas cuisine throughout Spain. Some say it was born in the monastery of San Clemente, in the capital of Castile-La Mancha, hands of its nuns. It was first documented in 1577, and its origins are believed to be Arab. This sweet confection is prepared with ground almonds, egg yolk, and sugar, and whether you enjoy its flavour or detest it, you must acknowledge that it has a place in every Spanish Christmas home. In addition to its delicious taste, marzipan can be moulded into various shapes that are almost too beautiful to eat and make fantastic Christmas ornaments.

Marzipan

Honey, sugar, ground almonds, and egg whites are essential in preparing this traditional, top-tier Christmas dessert. Even though there are already hundreds of turrón, which is the Spanish version of nougat, ranging from pistachio to truffle or coconut, the two varieties that continue to enjoy the most outstanding popularity are the traditional stern and soft versions.

Turrón

Without the "Roscón de Reyes," the star of the show, no Christmas season in Spain is complete. Undoubtedly, one of the most well-liked Christmas desserts in Spain is this delicious, bread-like cake with candied fruit slices on top that is fashioned like a giant doughnut. It will be challenging to locate a home in the entire nation on January 6 where roscón isn't served for breakfast or an afternoon snack in honour of what is known as the Three Kings' Day in Spain. The only question remains whether you will consume your roscón on Christmas and New Year's with or without cream, a heated topic in Spain every year.

Roscón de Reyes

eats and treats

If there was a time to play the lottery in Madrid, it was during the holiday season. People purchase tickets for the Spanish Christmas lottery, known locally as el Gordo or "the fat one," everywhere, from supermarkets to elementary schools. Surprisingly, this state-run lottery is the largest worldwide, with total awards often exceeding millions of euros. During the holiday season, Spaniards spend an average of €60–€70 on lottery tickets in an attempt to win the jackpot. However, everyone is eligible for the awards, not just Spanish citizens. So, when shopping for the holidays in Madrid, stop by a lottery booth to try your luck at el Gordo – it's tradition! The winners will be revealed on December 22 during a special live broadcast. That is when Spaniards around the nation watched with bated breath as pupils from the San Ildefonso elementary school in Madrid randomly selected and sang the winning numbers.

Spanish Christmas Lottery

Three Kings Day trumps Christmas Day as the primary gift-giving festival in Spain. (More on this shortly.) In recent years, many Spanish families have adopted the Santa Claus habit despite being non-traditional. Some children wake up on December 25 to discover their Christmas tree covered with gifts from the jolly man in the red suit. On Christmas Day, though, it is common to have another enormous dinner, this time for lunch. Most bars and restaurants in Madrid are open on Christmas Day, making it easy to get food if you visit the city. While stores and tourist attractions are closed on December 25, many things remain to do!

Christmas Day (Navidad)

On New Year's Eve, the streets of Madrid are filled with people enjoying the countdown and eating grapes for good luck. Puerta del Sol is the place to be, as it fills with fans eager to see the clock atop Casa de Correos strike midnight. Before departing, Spaniards usually gather with their families for a final, enormous Christmas meal. Although many restaurants close on New Year's Eve, some remain open and serve a festive set menu.

New Year's Eve (Nochevieja)

From the slick, glamorous international names in Salamanca to the edgy indie boutiques in Chueca, Madrid's shopping offers delights waiting to be explored. The city's quirky shopping environment comes to life during the holiday when locals and tourists go to the shops for the greatest gifts and prices. If you'd prefer to avoid crowds while shopping in Madrid during the Christmas season, we recommend going during the week (most people leave their shopping for the weekend). If you genuinely wish to wow your loved ones, you can bring them a tasty cuisine keepsake from Madrid. Shopping will tyre you out, so reward yourself once you're finished. Visit a local pastry store (El Riojano on Calle Mayor is our favourite) to indulge in delectable handcrafted sweets and soul-warming Spanish-style hot chocolate.

Go Christmas Shopping

The evening before the feast of the Three Kings is often regarded as the most special day of the year for youngsters in Spain. This evening, the Three Wise Men participate in a dazzling procession that travels around Madrid. They throw candy at the excited locals lining the streets as they go. The parade route is along Paseo de la Castellana from Nuevos Ministerios to Plaza de Cibeles. Find a seat and prepare to be amazed by the ornate floats and costumes featured in the parade. Just watch for any goodies flying around—a gorgeous float with a wintry motif that was part of a Three Kings Parade.

Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos)

entertainments

In Spain, Christmas Eve is a family affair. Most bars will be closed, while few restaurants will operate. The Christmas feast will be an absolute delight if you are fortunate to be invited to a family gathering. Misa del Gallo (Mass of the Rooster), so-called because, according to legend, a rooster crowed on the night Jesus was born, interrupts proceedings at midnight. The largest Misa del Gallo is held in the Montserrat Benedictine monastery near Barcelona.

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day is less significant in Spain than in other areas of the world. The Spanish celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve, while children must wait until Three Kings Day to receive gifts. In Spain, Christmas Eve is traditionally spent with one set of parents, while Christmas Day is typically finished with the other. Many consumers have begun dining in restaurants on Christmas Day in recent years. In the ahead, restaurants announce their holiday meals. Reservations are preferable; however, they are often only required the week of Christmas.

Christmas Day

Noche Vieja in Spain is a celebration night similar to the rest of the globe, albeit with a slightly different format. The schedule of events is based on "Spanish time." Instead of beginning early and reaching a climax at midnight, the Spanish ring in the New Year with friends or family and then head to the bars at 12:30 a.m. for a drink. The partying continues until approximately 6 a.m.

New Year's Eve

This custom was begun over 100 years ago by astute farmers who left with an excess of grapes after the harvest. It is customary to consume twelve grapes following the twelve chimes at midnight. This delightful practice is only hampered by the fact that seedless grapes are nearly impossible in Spain. In a rush to consume a dozen grapes, everyone bites into a seed and makes a goofy face. If you want to be precise with your grape eating, you must be aware that four higher-pitched chimes (known as Los cuatros) precede the major ones at midnight and signal the start of the genuine ones. Make sure you don't consume too many grapes too quickly. For each correct grape, you will receive a month of good luck.

Twelve Grapes at Midnight

events and fiestas

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