Christmas in Spain: Traditions, Food & Customs
Spain's Christmas season stretches from the El Gordo lottery draw on December 22 through Three Kings Day on January 6. Spanish Christmas traditions are deeply rooted in Catholic faith and regional culture, with the Three Kings being the traditional gift-givers rather than Santa Claus.
Last updated: February 2026
Spain's Christmas season stretches from the El Gordo lottery draw on December 22 through Three Kings Day on January 6. Spanish Christmas traditions are deeply rooted in Catholic faith and regional culture, with the Three Kings being the traditional gift-givers rather than Santa Claus.
Christmas Traditions in Spain
El Gordo Lottery
The world's largest lottery draw on December 22 kicks off the Spanish Christmas season. The entire country watches as schoolchildren sing out the winning numbers in a televised ceremony.
Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes)
On the evening of January 5, the Three Wise Men parade through cities on floats, throwing candy to children. The next morning, children open gifts left by the Kings.
Nochebuena (Christmas Eve)
The most important celebration, centered on a grand family dinner. Families attend midnight Mass (Misa del Gallo) and many stay up celebrating until the early hours.
Caga Tió (Catalonia)
In Catalonia, children 'feed' a small log starting in early December. On Christmas Eve, they beat it with sticks while singing, and it 'poops out' small gifts and candy.
Traditional Christmas Food in Spain
Turrón
A nougat confection made from almonds, honey, and sugar, available in hard (Alicante) and soft (Jijona) varieties. It is the quintessential Spanish Christmas sweet.
Roscón de Reyes
A ring-shaped sweet bread eaten on January 6, decorated with candied fruits. It contains a small figurine and a dried bean — finding each has special meaning.
Gambas al Ajillo
Garlic shrimp served sizzling in olive oil — a popular Christmas Eve appetizer in many Spanish households.
Unique Christmas Customs
- Eating 12 grapes at midnight on New Year's Eve — one for each chime of the clock
- Caga Tió in Catalonia — beating a log until it 'poops' gifts
- El Gordo lottery — the world's richest lottery kicks off the season on December 22
- Children receive gifts on January 6 (Three Kings Day) rather than December 25
Explore more Christmas traditions
Who Brings Gifts in Spain?
In Spain, gifts are traditionally brought by Los Reyes Magos (Three Wise Men). This unique tradition reflects centuries of cultural and religious heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is Christmas celebrated in Spain?
What is the Santa Claus equivalent in Spain?
What do people eat for Christmas in Spain?
How do you say "Merry Christmas" in Spain?
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