Catholic Christmas Eve

The night before Christmas, it is important not to miss a traditional family dinner.On December 24, Spaniards celebrate Nochebuena, the night before Christmas. The holiday is usually celebrated around the family, arranging a family dinner. It is customary to give gifts to the home.

To the sounds of tambourines and sambomba (a musical instrument like a drum), children sing villancicos - traditional Spanish New Year songs and aguinaldo pigs (sweet, nougou, sand cookies, coins, etc.), which recalls our almost lost tradition of caleding. Unfortunately, this tradition has almost disappeared in the big cities and persists mainly in the villages.

At two o'clock in the morning everyone gathers at Misa del Gallo (Rooster Mass). According to tradition, this was the first animal to see the birth of Christ and spread the news around the world.

Today, young people are gradually moving away from the old traditions of the holiday and after a family dinner go to celebrate the holiday with friends.