Christmas in Spain and South America

Hi All

I have no idea what they eat in Spain or South America for Christmas. I know that the Portuguese traditioanlly celebrate Christmas Eve more tham Christmas day. That traditionally Bacalhau is often served and there is a “Bolo de Rei” King cake. More a enriched dough bread with dried fruit and glazed fruit. Also often suckling pig with an apple in its mouth. So was wondering what others eat. 

Maxie

¡Hola Maxie!

What a perfect question for this time of year! 

You're right; the gastronomy of Latin America is hugely diverse, so you'll find a wide variety of dishes on the table at Christmas time. For example, tamales are a traditional pre-colonial dish often eaten at Christmas time in Mexico. They consist of corn masa dough and a filling such as pork. Additionally, they are wrapped in corn husks so they can be steamed. 

In Spain, a traditional Christmas dinner might involve a suckling pig; however, depending on where you are, there can be a tremendous variation. For example, in Galicia, a coastal region, large seafood spreads, including lobster, are a typical delicacy for Christmas dinner. 

Like the Portuguese tradition, "Christmas Eve" or La Nochebuena is a vital part of Christmas celebrations in Latin America. Although it may vary between regions and families, La Nochebuena is often when Papá Noel, "Father Christmas," will bring gifts for the children. However, in Latin America and Spain, there is significant variation in who, according to tradition, will bring the presents. For example, in Latin America, el Niño Jesús, "the Baby Jesus," may bring gifts to children on La Nochebuena. 

Throughout the Spanish-speaking world, each region and each family adds something unique to Christmas traditions and celebrations.

If you would like a deeper insight into Christmas traditions in Latin America, feel free to check out the Culture Lesson: Christmas in Latin America. 

¡Feliz Navidad!

Indy

Hi Indy

Thank you so much. Really interesting. Also very similar to Portuguese Christmas. Living in Canada feels a lot more like Christmas. In South Africa it was hot and having a traditional roast was not one always felt like on a hot day. Often Christmas day was a BBQ around the pool. 

 If you celebrate Christmas I wish you a very happy and blessed Christmas

Maxie