HOW DO SPANISH PEOPLE CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS?
The day of New Year’s Eve, 31st December, is celebrated in a particular way: when the clock strikes twelve, Spanish people eat one grape for each sounding of the bell that, according to the tradition, guarantees 12 months of prosperity. It is not Santa who comes to Spain bearing gifts, but the Three Wise Men. The Spanish Christmas continues for a few weeks after Dec. 25th. On the Eve of Epiphany, January 5th, children place their shoes on the doorstep, and in the secret of the night, the Three Wise Men pass leaving gifts. January 6th, Epiphany is heralded with parades in various cities where candy and cakes are distributed to throngs of children.
The more common traditions include incredibly elaborate "Nacimiento" (nativity scenes), Christmas trees, flowers, marzipan and other sweets, candles, decorations and hand-made Christmas gifts. MERRY CHRISTMAS!
¡FELIZ NAVIDAD!
No comments:
Post a Comment