Top 10 Christmas traditions in Spain you should know about

Planning to celebrate Christmas in Spain or simply intrigued by its festive customs? From the beginning of December until 6 January (Three Kings’ Day), the country is filled with activities that bring family and friends together to share unforgettable moments, enjoy hearty meals and participate in Christmas traditions that have endured in Spain for centuries.

Join us on a journey through the 10 most important Christmas traditions in Spain, and get a complete picture of how the holiday is lived. Read on to this Quadratia article and get caught up in the Christmas spirit!

1. Putting up the Christmas tree

While Christmas trees are a standard part of the holiday season worldwide, in Spain they have a particularly special meaning. Putting up the tree is a family activity that brings everyone together, strengthening family bonds and creating memories that last a lifetime during the festive season.

A Christmas tree is a must in Spanish households. It’s decorated with all kinds of lights, coloured balls, stars, and other decorations that reflect each family’s personal style.

It’s also worth mentioning that local traditions play a big part in Christmas in Spain. In places like Catalonia, for instance, you’ll often see the Caga Tió, a Christmas character unique to Catalan culture, sitting next to the Christmas tree.

The Caga Tió, which literally means ‘log that shits’, is a wooden log with four wooden legs, a smiling face and a traditional barretina (traditional Catalan hat). On Christmas Eve, children beat the Caga Tió while singing traditional songs to make it ‘shit’ presents, which adds a distinctive and playful touch to the Christmas decorations.

This is a one-off moment that everyone looks forward to every Christmas.

2. Decorate the rest of the house: mistletoe, garlands, Christmas elves and setting up the Nativity Scene

In addition to putting up the Christmas tree, decorating the rest of the house is an essential part of Christmas traditions in Spain, creating a warm and cosy atmosphere in the home.

Mistletoe

Mistletoe is a plant traditionally associated with Christmas in many cultures. Hanging sprigs of mistletoe on different doors of the house symbolises protection and good fortune. According to popular belief, if two people meet under the mistletoe, they should kiss, which encourages togetherness and love during the holidays.

Garlands

Garlands are another essential decorative element. They are placed on doors, windows and stairs and add a festive and colourful touch. They can be made of various materials, such as holly leaves, pinecones, LED lights and decorative ribbons.

Father Christmas socks and Christmas elves

Although the figure of Father Christmas is not as central in Spain as in other countries, the tradition of hanging up socks to receive presents has become popular. In fact, more than presents, children find sweets, chocolates or some cash to complement their gifts.

Similarly, Christmas elves are here to stay. These magical little creatures are known for their playful spirit and their role in keeping the magic of Christmas alive. How do they do it? Through small nocturnal mischief, such as moving ornaments, hiding presents or leaving secret messages, elves contribute to creating an atmosphere full of mystery and enchantment during the festive season. Their presence adds a touch of fantasy and magic that makes Christmas even more special for children.

Any family in Spain knows what we are talking about.

Setting up the Nativity Scene and the Advent calendar

On the one hand, the Nativity Scene, also known as a pesebre, is a representation of the birth of Jesus and is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Spain. Setting up a Nativity Scene is an activity that involves the whole family, from choosing the figures to carefully placing them on the stage.

Nativity scenes can vary from simple versions (only the nativity scene) to elaborate designs representing an entire town (different types of houses, inclusion of bakeries, butchers, streams, orchards, laundries, etc.).

A unique feature of Spanish Nativity scenes is the inclusion of the caganer, a typical Catalan figure that is widespread nationwide and represents a crouching peasant, usually in the act of defecating. Although it may seem peculiar, the caganer symbolises fertility and prosperity, adding a touch of humour and realism to the representation of the birth of Jesus.

On the other hand, the Advent calendar is a calendar that helps to count the days from 1 December to Christmas Eve. This calendar is designed to generate anticipation and excitement. Each day, a calendar window opens to reveal a surprise, either a small chocolate bar or a Christmas-related figurine.

Such is its importance in Spain that renowned brands and companies have adapted this tradition to their products: Disney with an Advent calendar of books, Lego with an Advent calendar of figures, or cosmetics brands such as Dior.

Isabel Soriano, Sales and Marketing Office Coordinator at Quadratia

3. Christmas lights

Enjoying the Christmas lights is one of the most anticipated Christmas traditions of the year. These light displays transform cities into magical landscapes, full of colour and creativity, and attract thousands of visitors, both locals and tourists, encouraged by the festive spirit.

Don’t miss one of the highlights of Christmas in Spain!

Christmas lights in Alicante

In fact, the Christmas lights in Alicante (Costa Blanca) were inaugurated last Friday 29th November. From now on, the lights, music and shows will remain until Sunday 19th January, putting the finishing touch to the Christmas festivities.

Of all the streets lit up in Alicante, the following stand out:

• Town Hall Square and the Explanada: the heart of Alicante is adorned with a spectacular giant Christmas tree, a beautiful illuminated façade and a giant Nativity Scene recognised by Guinness World Records as the largest in the world.
• Central Market area: During the Christmas season, the Central Market area is transformed with festive lights and themed decorations that enhance the historic architecture of the building. This place becomes a popular meeting point where visitors can enjoy their Christmas shopping while admiring the impressive illuminations.
• Avenida de la Estación and Plaza de los Luceros: these are two of the most emblematic areas to enjoy the Christmas lights in Alicante and its atmosphere.

Christmas lights in Malaga

From the 29th of November, various areas of Malaga are lit up with Christmas decorations that vary in style and theme. The most outstanding areas to enjoy the Christmas illuminations in Malaga (Costa del Sol) include:

• Christmas show at the Botanical Garden “La Concepción”: “Illusion: Christmas has many faces, but only one heart” is the name of the Christmas illumination that will be displayed this year at the historic Botanical Garden “La Concepción”. This event can be visited from Friday 29 November and will be available until 6 January. Tickets to see the show are already on sale through the website and will cost 15,50 euros for adults and 11,50 euros for children.
• Lantern Festival: starts on Friday 29 November with a price of 15-20 euros. This festival features 600 lanterns and 4,000 points of light that illuminate the Parque del Oeste, creating a spectacular landscape that combines tradition and modernity.
• Calle Larios is one of the most emblematic streets in Malaga and becomes the epicentre of Christmas lights and special events in the shopping area par excellence.

Christmas lights in Murcia

This year, the Christmas lighting in Murcia (Costa Cálida) began on Saturday 23rd November at 20:00 hours in the Plaza de Santo Domingo, marking an essential date in the city’s Christmas agenda. Accordingly, and among all the streets lit up in Murcia, the following stand out:

• The Plaza de las Flores: this square is transformed with luminous garlands and themed decorations that enhance its historic architecture. Visitors can stroll among the bright lights while enjoying the decorated windows of nearby shops.
• The Floridablanca Garden also takes an active part in Murcia’s Christmas lighting. This beautiful park is illuminated with decorative lights that highlight its trees and paths, creating a magical atmosphere for those looking for a quiet place to enjoy the Christmas lights.
• Calle Trapería is filled with festive lights and themed decorations that embellish this lively shopping street. In addition, events such as the Christmas market are organised, where you can find handmade products, unique gifts and delicious seasonal food.

4. Christmas markets

Christmas markets are ideal places to find gifts, decorations and enjoy gastronomic delights. In 2025, the main Spanish cities will open their markets from December to January, offering a wide variety of activities and products for all ages. Below are the most outstanding street markets in Alicante, Malaga and Murcia.

Christmas markets in Alicante

• Christmas Market in the Town Hall Square: will be held in the Town Hall Square from 1 December until 5 January, with opening hours from 11:00 to 21:00. Open-air concerts and light shows will enrich the festive experience for residents and visitors.
• Craft Fair in Gabriel Miró Square: perfect for those looking for unique and original gifts, this fair will be open from the 6th to the 24th of December. With local artisans exhibiting their creations, from jewellery to ceramics, the fair will be open from 10:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 21:00.
• Alfonso X el Sabio Avenue Market: this market will be set up on the avenue from the beginning of December until 5 January, operating from 10:00 to 22:00. The stalls will be full of typical products and handicrafts.
• Christmas Souk in the Central Market of Alicante: held on 14 and 15 December, this souk in the Central Market will offer fresh produce, as well as cultural activities and workshops. Opening hours will be from 11:00 to 18:00.
• Epiphany market on Paseo de Gómiz: ideal for the last few days of Christmas shopping, this market will be held on 5 January from 10:00 to 20:00.

Christmas markets in Malaga

• Paseo del Parque Christmas Market: with more than 20 years of history and located on a central promenade, it has 90 stalls offering everything from figures for the nativity scene to books and handicrafts. Open from 11am to 10pm throughout the festive season, it’s the perfect place to stroll around and find the perfect gift.
• Port Christmas Market (Christmas Village): located on Muelle Uno, this market offers views of the sea and festive decorations that transform the space into a real Christmas village. With play areas, igloos and shows, it is ideal for the whole family. It is usually open from 10am to 6pm.
• Sabor a Málaga Fair: although it is not a traditional street market, this culinary fair deserves a special mention. Held at the beginning of December for a week, it brings together 108 producers from all over the province offering traditional gastronomic products.

Christmas markets in Murcia

• Christmas Market in the Glorieta del Ayuntamiento: located in the main square, this market has 24 stalls where locals and visitors can buy handmade products of the “Murcia” brand. The decoration includes a Christmas tree more than 10 metres high, giant nutcrackers and a life-size replica of the Salzillo nativity scene, a classic element of Christmas in Murcia. Opening hours are from 11:00 to 23:00. Also note:
  • Concerts and Shows: on 24 December, at 2 p.m., the concert “Aperitivazo” by Adrián Ruiz will be held, and on 31 December there will be a performance by “Antuan Muñoz”.
  • Children’s Show: every Saturday and Sunday morning at 12.30 p.m., there will be a children’s show with activities such as tyre-tyre rides, a carousel for the little ones, a little train ride and games at the Vidal stand.
  • Special Mapping: on 23 December, a special mapping with the artist Kalon By will be projected on the façade of the City Hall of Murcia.
  • Festive atmosphere: the market offers three food trucks, a chestnut stall and a mulled wine stall, typical of European markets.

5. Singing Christmas carols and asking for Christmas bonuses

Singing Christmas carols is a practice that has been passed down from generation to generation in Spain. These Christmas songs vary from region to region, reflecting the cultural diversity of the country.

In the Valencian Community, for example, Christmas carols may include rhythms and melodies specific to the region, while in Andalusia, flamenco influences are incorporated, adding a unique touch to the celebrations. Similarly, carols are sung in a variety of contexts:

• Family gatherings: During Christmas Eve dinner, it is common for families to get together to sing Christmas carols.
• Churches: Midnight masses include performances of carols, integrating music into the religious rituals of Christmas.
• Public events: in squares and streets, groups of singers and choirs organise performances that invite the community to participate and enjoy Christmas music.

Traditional instruments in Christmas carols

To accompany the songs, various instruments are used to add rhythm and colour to the performances:

• Tambourines: perhaps the most emblematic instruments in Spanish Christmas celebrations. Usually made of wood or cardboard with small metal rattles called “platínelas” inside, tambourines are gently shaken or struck to produce their characteristic tinkling sound.
• Cajones de madera: are percussion instruments that play a fundamental role in Spanish folk music, including Christmas carols. Originally from Peru, cajones have been adopted and adapted in various regions of Spain, especially in Andalusia, where their use is very popular.
• Empty mistela bottles are an example of creativity and improvisation in Spanish Christmas music. Mistela is a sweet drink made from wine and honey, and in many celebrations, the empty bottles are reused as unique musical instruments.
• Clapping: Clapping is an essential component in the performance of Christmas carols, providing a steady rhythm and a sense of cohesion among the singers. This tradition of clapping to the rhythm of the music is common in many cultures, but in Spain it has its own style and meaning.

The aguinaldo: music, joy and thanksgiving

Historically, carol singing involved groups of families and friends touring neighbourhoods, bringing joy and music to every home. During these visits, the singers would ask for aguinaldo, a donation or gift symbolising appreciation for their performance. This practice not only fostered solidarity and community togetherness, but also enriched the festive spirit of the season.

Over the years, the way we celebrate the aguinaldo has evolved significantly. Nowadays, it is more common for large families and groups of friends to gather in country houses, villas or communal spaces to sing Christmas carols together. These intimate gatherings allow the traditions of Christmas in Spain to be enjoyed in a more personal and cosy atmosphere, adapting to social and cultural changes without losing their original essence.

6. Play the Lotería de Navidad or the Lotería de “El Niño”.

One of the most emblematic Christmas traditions in Spain is playing the Christmas Lottery, popularly known as “El Gordo”. This draw is the most eagerly awaited lottery event of the year and unites millions of Spaniards on the morning of 22 December in an exciting celebration of luck and hope with prizes of up to 4 million euros.

In addition to “El Gordo”, the “El Niño” lottery, which takes place on 6 January, also enjoys great popularity, offering another opportunity to win significant prizes (up to 2 million euros) during the Christmas festivities.

7. Drinking 12 grapes at the New Year’s Eve chimes (31 December)

The tradition of eating 12 grapes on New Year’s Eve has its roots in late 19th century Spain. It is said that in 1909, winegrowers in Alicante, in order to sell more grapes, promoted this custom during the traditional New Year’s Eve lighting at the Puerta del Sol in Madrid. The grapes were quickly adopted by the population, becoming a common and beloved practice in all regions of the country.

The celebration takes place on the night of 31 December, when Spaniards gather to bid farewell to the old year and welcome in the new. The main event takes place in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol, where thousands of people congregate to witness the countdown to midnight.

Steps for eating the 12 grapes on December 31st

1. Each person is prepared with a bunch of 12 grapes, one for each chime. Each grape represents a month of the coming year, symbolising the hope of good luck and prosperity for each of them.
2. At 00:00 hours, the clock at Puerta del Sol starts to chime. At each chime, a grape is eaten.
3. It is essential to synchronise the consumption of the grapes with the rhythm of the chimes in order to comply with the tradition correctly. Be careful! First of all, there are four quarter warnings, so don’t start eating your grapes there!
4. After consuming the 12 grapes, it is common to express good wishes to family and friends. This ritual seeks to attract fortune, health and success in all facets of the lives of those who participate.

8. Large lunches and dinners

Christmas in Spain is a season marked by hearty lunches and dinners. These gatherings are not only a manifestation of Spain’s rich gastronomy, but also an opportunity to strengthen family ties and enjoy the company of loved ones. We will immediately detail the main celebrations and the typical dishes that accompany them.

• Christmas business lunches and dinners: designed to celebrate the year’s achievements, strengthen team spirit and set goals for the coming year. These gatherings are usually held in restaurants and hotels, where special menus are offered.
• Christmas Eve dinner (24 December): families usually gather in their homes for a festive meal full of flavour and tradition. Typical dishes

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• Christmas lunch (25 December): this is celebrated with a family lunch that is usually more relaxed than Christmas Eve dinner, but just as delicious. Among the most common dishes are cocido madrileño or paella alicantina.
• New Year’s Eve dinner (31 December): marks the farewell to the old year and the welcome of the new one. On this occasion, restaurants and hotels offer extraordinary menus designed to satisfy the most demanding palates.
• New Year’s Day meal (1 January) and Epiphany meal (6 January): it is common to go out to eat in restaurants or enjoy family meals.

9. Cavalcade of the Three Wise Men (5 January)

One of the most enchanting Christmas traditions in Spain is the Three Wise Men Parade. Held on the evening of 5 January, this colourful and fanciful procession travels through the streets of towns and villages across the country, announcing the arrival of the Three Wise Men: Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar. This event fills the hearts of children and adults alike with joy and magic.

Although all parades are special, some stand out for their magnitude, creativity and tradition. Among them, the Alcoy Cavalcade is one of the most famous and recognised nationally and internationally.

In the Alcoy Cavalcade, the Three Wise Men’s helpers climb up the stairs to the balconies of the neighbours, handing out presents to the children, which adds a personal and magical touch to the parade.

Isabel Soriano, Sales and Marketing Office Coordinator at Quadratia

In addition to the parade itself, there are other traditions that complement the celebration of the Three Wise Men in Spain. For example, it is customary for children to leave three glasses of milk and biscuits for the Three Wise Men and their camels. This custom symbolises hospitality and gratitude for the gifts received, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and kindness.

10. Eating the “roscón de Reyes” (5 and 6 January)

Finally, one of the most delicious Christmas traditions in Spain is eating the Roscón de Reyes. This spongy, ring-shaped sweet is traditionally decorated with candied fruit, representing the jewels in a crown.

Its smooth texture and slightly sweet taste make it the perfect accompaniment to a cup of hot chocolate, making the Roscón de Reyes the ideal dessert on the night of 5 January and on Three Kings Day itself (6 January), also known as Día del Niño (Children’s Day).

Inside the Roscón de Reyes are hidden small symbolic objects that add a touch of fun to the celebration:

• Figurines: related to Christmas, animals, etc. However, there is one that is particularly important: the one that represents a king. Whoever finds this figurine in their portion of the roscón is symbolically crowned king or queen of the celebration.
• Bean: on the other hand, whoever finds a bean in their portion must promise to buy the next Roscón the following year, thus starting a chain of family traditions.

And you, what are you waiting for to experience the traditions of Christmas in Spain?

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From Quadratia we wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year! What did you think of our article about Christmas traditions in Spain? Share our post and follow us on our social networks!