All over the world, Christmas is one of the most famous holidays. In Spain, as in many other countries, this holiday focuses on the celebration of the birth of Christ. It is a time for families to gather to celebrate and share the joy of the season with song, dance and family meals. Christmas trees and handmade decorations, as well as the nativity scene are familiar sights. Although these traditions are common in many countries, there are certain aspects of the Christmas holiday that are unique to Spain.
Before Christmas, the Spanish celebrate a tradition called “Hogueras” (bonfires). This is a celebration of the winter solstice which is the shortest day of the year. At this time, people jump over a bonfire, which symbolizes protection against illness. Even during the winter solstice, swings are constructed for use by people in the belief that by swinging high they will cause the sun to move higher in the sky.
On Christmas Eve, small lights are lit in the windows of the villages, representing the stars in the Christmas Eve sky. At midnight, bells are rung in each of the villages calling everyone to “La Misa Del Gallo”, the rooster fair. It is called this because the rooster was known as the first of the animals to announce the birth of Christ.
After the midnight mass, a Christmas dinner is served. The traditional holiday meal includes “Pavo Trufado de Navidad,” which is Christmas turkey with truffles. Whole roast lamb, piglet, duck, and seafood such as lobster, shrimp, trout, and salmon may also be served, depending on which part of the country you are in. Traditional desserts may include marzipan, made from honey, almonds, and eggs, and polvorones, which are a sweet bread. Nuts, dried fruit and caramel custard are among other desserts served. No meal is complete without a drink. Cava is the Spanish champagne, and it often accompanies the Christmas meal.