Christmas Traditions & Activities in Madrid





Christmas Time in Madrid

Spain comes alive every year from the 24th of December to the 6th of January to celebrate Christmas. This time of year attracts many tourists, especially in Madrid, because Madrid is known for the many festive activities that it has to offer. 

Some of the most popular things to do during this time of year include the Navibus, which takes passengers on a 45-minute ride around the city to see La Iluminacion Navideña, which is 10,000,000 lights strung up around the city.

Another popular attraction you may find yourself participating in is the building of your own Belenes. Belenes are miniature figures that portray a religious mockup of the birth of Christ. People in Spain love participating in this activity, because almost 97% of Spaniards are Roman Catholics.

For those who work, during the month of December many employers find it beneficial to hold Comidas de Empresa, or holiday meals, which encourage camaraderie. This not only lowers stress levels around the office, but also gives workers higher morale.

On the 24th and the 25th of December, Spaniards will traditionally have dinner with their families or loved ones. This is commonly referred to as Reunion Familiar, without the giving of gifts on the 25th. This whole week everyone will continue work as usual with the exception of having the 26th off. 

This year Christmas falls in the middle of the week, so if you have family living very far away, you may find it difficult to make it to a Reunion Familiar and then make it to work the following morning. 

On the 31st of December, people get together for dinner. After, they watch the clock tower in Puerta del Sol strike midnight. A common tradition is to eat 12 grapes with each ringing of the bells. This same thing happens on the 30th, but this is more directed towards children and families. 

Then people have the 1st of January off. Work resumes as usual on the 2nd-4th, and on the night of the 5th kids will leave milk and water out along with some bread for the Three Kings, who will bring them presents if they have been good. 

Then everyone has the 6th of January off.

Lastly, an old tradition that many kids participate in is going house-to-house singing Spanish Christmas carols in hope of being given candy or coins in return for their caroling. This is called Los Villancicos, and children around age 7 congregate with each other and participate. Although this may seem like a financial burden on homeowners, especially if a group of 30 smiling faces show up to your door expecting money, it is not, because it is entirely appropriate to give just ¢1 or ¢2 for the carols.

Photo taken from:
https://catshostels.com/christmas-madrid-holidays/

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