How does Spain celebrate Christmas?
Friday, November 7, 2008 @ 12:52 PM
Until very recently Father Christmas was just a big fat man in a red suit that children in other parts of the world fantasised about. Father Christmas (Santa Claus) has never been important in Spain although this is now changing with more and more Spanish families putting Santa decorations around their homes.
The Spanish have always, and still do, celebrate the Epiphany, when
the Three Kings visited Jesus bringing him presents. The 6th of January is therefore when Spanish children receive their "Christmas" (Navidad) presents.
One of the surprising things is that unless it lands on a weekend, the 7th of January is not a holiday, so children have to go to school the day after opening their presents. I'm sure most are never too chuffed about that.
You can read these articles for more information about
Christmas in Spain and if you want to spend some money,
Christmas shopping in Spain.
¡Feiz Navidad!