We have noticed that Christmas in Spain is not nearly as commercial as it is in the US. The focus is more religious and family oriented. Of course we are in a smaller village, so things might be different in the bigger cities. The nativity scene is the primary decoration that everyone has.
December 22 is a big day in Spain, because this is the day that the children sing out the winning lottery numbers on live TV. The lottery is a national obsession. Tickets cost 20 euros apiece and the average person buys 3 tickets. This year the lottery paid out 3.3 billion in tax free awards. Unlike traditional lotteries, Spain’s lottery is designed for many winners. The top prize is 529,840 euros, which is called El Gordo, the fat one! In case you are wondering, we did not buy a ticket.
December 24, Christmas eve, is called Nochebuena, the good night. This is a time for families to be together. They all go to midnight mass and have a huge family feast. It is common for many people to stay up all night, because it is “the good night,” and not a time to sleep.
December 25, Some families might exchange gifts, but traditionally gifts for the children are not done until January 6. This day is more about sleeping late after the long night, eating left overs from the Christmas eve feast, and having a quiet day.
December 28, is like April fools day. People play tricks on others. The newspapers will have made up stories, etc. The history behind this day, comes from Biblical times when King Herod ordered the male babies in Bethlehem killed because he heard that a baby king had been born. But Mary and Joseph had already left with Jesus, so the “joke” was on Herod.
January 5, the Eve of Epiphany, children place their shoes on the door steps, or terrace. They will put carrots, hay, or other food in their shoes to feed the camels that carry the 3 wise men.
January 6, the children wake up to find that the wise men have left gifts for them, and the camel food is gone. Often there will be a parade and the 3 wise men will ride through town throwing candy.
How fascinating! Are you going to wait until Jan. 6th for presents? And feed the camels?
Oh yes! Luie is very excited. He learned about the 3 wise men in school!
Very interesting. What wonderful thing, to be living there in the midst of traditions. the date Jan 6 is kind of nice to remember the king was indeed a person who needed to be recognized for what he truly was. did you go to mass? Bet it was long and very boring for Mr. Luie! Miss your visit tonight! I am playing flute at candlelite service!!!! Annette
We did not make it to midnight mass. Too tired. It would have been nice to hear you play for the candlelight service.
What fun hearing about the traditions. How did you happen to learn most of the information – locals, the internet, Luie’s school? I bet that’s been a lot of fun to practice some different traditions than usual.
We have been attending a Spanish language school. It has been great for not only language but history of the country, traditions, culture, etc. Overall a great experience!