Throughout the world, Christmas is one of the most well known holidays. In Spain, as well as in many other countries, this holiday focuses on the celebration of Christ's birth. It is a time for families to collect together to celebrate and share the joy of the season with song, dancing and family meals. Christmas trees and handcrafted decorations, as well as the Nativity scene are well-known sights. Although these traditions are base in many countries, there are some aspects of the Christmas holiday which are unique to Spain.
Leading up to the Christmas holiday, 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, population jump over a bonfire, symbolizing a safety against illness. Also while the winter solstice, swing sets are constructed to be used by the population in the trust that by swinging high they will cause the sun to move higher in the sky.
Halloween Decorations
On Christmas Eve, tiny lamps are lit in the windows throughout the villages, representing the stars in the Christmas Eve sky. At midnight, bells are rung in each of the villages, calling everybody to "La Misa Del Gallo", the Mass of the Rooster. It is called this because the rooster was known as the first of the animals to announce Christ's birth.
After the midnight Mass, Christmas evening meal is served. The traditional holiday meal includes "Pavo Trufado de Navidad", which is Christmas turkey with truffles. Roast lamb, suckling pig, duck, and seafood such as lobster, shrimp, trout and salmon may also be served, depending on which part of the country one is in. traditional desserts may contain marzipan, made of honey, almonds and eggs, and polvorones, which is a sweetbread. Nuts, dried fruits, and caramel custard are among other desserts served. No meal is unblemished without a drink. Cava is the Spanish champagne, and it often accompanies the Christmas meal.
In many countries a visit by Santa Claus is an prominent part of a Christmas celebration. However, in Spain, this is not the case. The children do receive small gifts from "Papa Noel" on Christmas, but this is not a big part of the festivities. Instead, they celebrate January 6, which is the Three King's Day, a day commemorating the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to the Baby Jesus. On January 5, the children take part in a parade to see the Three Kings when they come to their hamlet or town. When given the chance, they ask the Three Kings for the presents they are hoping for. On the eve of this extra day, the children leave their shoes out where they are in effect found. They are filled with straw and carrots for the camels on which the Wise Men travel. On the next morning, the straw and carrots are gone, substituted by presents. On this day, a extra dessert is served, the "Roscon de los Reyes" which is a large circular cake. It is decorated with candied fruits, which relate the jewels which were on the Three Kings' robes. There is a surprise baked into the cake, and whoever finds it becomes the king or queen of the house.
Spain's celebration of Christmas is similar to the manner in which other countries celebrate it with Christmas trees and Christmas wreaths.. But by also having its own unique traditions, a visitor can gain insight into the population of Spain and their lives. Knowing the traditions of varied countries such as Spain can give one a new appreciation of the Christmas holiday around the world.
popular Christmas Traditions and Christmas Decorations in Spain
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