Christmas is a time filled with joy, traditions, and festive celebrations around the world. In Spain, the holiday season is especially colorful and packed with unique customs that make it truly special. From the food people eat to the songs they sing, Spanish Christmas is full of surprises that many may not know. Whether it’s the enchanting stories or the fun games, there is so much to learn about how Spaniards celebrate this wonderful time of year.
Today, we will share some fascinating trivia about Spanish Christmas traditions. You might be amazed to find out about the special feasts, cheerful songs, and the magical characters who bring joy to children. Learn about the thrilling lottery held each December and the unique ways families come together to celebrate. With this trivia, you will gain insight into what makes a Spanish Christmas so memorable and the rich culture behind these customs. Get ready to broaden your understanding of the holidays with some delightful facts that can spark conversations and bring a little bit of Spain into your celebrations!
Spanish Christmas Trivia
A Taste of Spanish Christmas Delicacies
1. What sweet treat is traditionally eaten during Christmas in Spain? (Answer: Turrón)
2. What type of fish is commonly enjoyed on Christmas Eve in Spain? (Answer: Cod)
3. Which dish made with meat and spices is popular during the festive season? (Answer: Pavo Trufado)
4. What is the name of the doughnut-like pastry often served during the Three Kings festivities? (Answer: Roscón de Reyes)
5. What is the main ingredient in the Spanish Christmas drink, “sidra”? (Answer: Cider)
6. Which popular Spanish dish consists of seafood or meat in a rice base during Christmas? (Answer: Paella)
7. What kind of sweets are usually enjoyed with family during the holiday season in Spain? (Answer: Polvorones)
8. Which Christmas dessert is made from figs, nuts, and spices? (Answer: Frutas Secas)
9. What is a beloved hot drink in Spain during the Christmas season? (Answer: Chocolate Caliente)
10. What Christmas cake is filled with almond nougat and often gifted? (Answer: Tarta de Santiago)
Melodies of the Spanish Christmas
1. What traditional Spanish Christmas song is known as “Campana sobre Campana”? (Answer: A Christmas Bell)
2. In Spain, what is a popular carol sung on Christmas Eve? (Answer: Noche de Paz)
3. What type of music accompanies the traditional “Zambombas” celebrated in Andalusia? (Answer: Folk music)
4. What do Spanish children receive as gifts along with Christmas carols? (Answer: Songs and laughter)
5. Which village in Spain is famous for its lively Christmas carol performances? (Answer: Betlem de Caga Tió)
6. What is the Spanish term for a Christmas carol? (Answer: Villancico)
7. What dance is often performed to accompany Christmas songs in some regions of Spain? (Answer: Jota)
8. What musical instrument is often used to create festive Christmas music in Spain? (Answer: Guitar)
9. In which part of Spain is it common to sing carols from door to door during Christmas? (Answer: Arcangel de la Navidá)
10. What festive activity do children call “La Lotería de Navidad”? (Answer: Christmas Lottery)
The Magic of Christmas Characters in Spain
1. Who is the traditional Christmas gift-bringer in Spanish culture? (Answer: Los Reyes Magos)
2. What character is often confused with Santa Claus but is distinctly Spanish? (Answer: Papá Noel)
3. What is the name of the Catalan figure who poops in his own nativity scene? (Answer: Caga Tió)
4. Which character is known for his role in Spanish Christmas processions? (Answer: El Niño Jesús)
5. What do Spanish children leave out for the Reyes Magos on the night of January 5th? (Answer: Shoes)
6. Who customarily protects the village from mischief during the Christmas season in Spanish folklore? (Answer: El Olentzero)
7. What festive character is depicted as a woodcutter in Basque country? (Answer: Olentzero)
8. What is the traditional role of the “Caga Tió” during Christmas celebrations? (Answer: Pooing gifts)
9. What is the popular legend associated with the Reyes Magos? (Answer: They followed the star to visit Jesus)
10. What character is particularly associated with the feast of the Epiphany in Spain? (Answer: The Three Kings)
The Joy of Spanish Festivities
1. What is the name of the big lottery that takes place in Spain every December? (Answer: El Gordo)
2. What major event takes place on January 6th to celebrate the arrival of the Three Kings? (Answer: Three Kings Parade)
3. During which holiday are families encouraged to gather around to celebrate? (Answer: Nochebuena)
4. What is the main celebration called that takes place on Christmas Day in Spain? (Answer: La Navidad)
5. What is the Spanish term used for the feast day of the Epiphany? (Answer: Día de Reyes)
6. What type of market is popular in Spain leading up to Christmas? (Answer: Christmas Markets)
7. What is common for Spanish families to place in their windows during Christmas? (Answer: Christmas lights)
8. What is often made as decorations that children create for Christmas in schools? (Answer: Christmas crafts)
9. In which month do Spanish families typically start their Christmas decorations? (Answer: December)
10. Which curious tradition involves throwing flour and confetti at festivities? (Answer: La Fiesta de Año Nuevo)
Christmas Traditions of Time-Hosted Family Gatherings
1. In Spain, what is the dinner called that takes place on Christmas Eve? (Answer: Nochebuena dinner)
2. What unique game involving marbles or coins is played during the holiday season? (Answer: Lotería)
3. What is the custom of enjoying a large family meal where everyone shares food? (Answer: Nochebuena feast)
4. What tradition involves children performing small acts of charity during Christmas? (Answer: Christmas caroling)
5. Which special item is generally the centerpiece of a Spanish Christmas dinner? (Answer: Roasted lamb)
6. How do Spanish families start the New Year with good luck? (Answer: Eating 12 grapes at midnight)
7. What traditional food do families prepare together on Christmas Day? (Answer: Buñuelos)
8. Which activity closely follows the Three Kings Day parade? (Answer: Festive family meals)
9. What is a cherished tradition among groups of family and friends during the Christmas season? (Answer: Sharing holiday gifts)
10. What do many Spanish towns decorate to mark the festive time? (Answer: Town squares)
Holidays Filled With Light and Warmth
1. What is the common Spanish greeting for Christmas? (Answer: Feliz Navidad)
2. Where do communities hang lights to celebrate Christmas in Spain? (Answer: City streets)
3. What Christmas tradition involves a famous nativity display in Spanish homes? (Answer: Belén)
4. What floral decoration is often used to embellish Christmas tables? (Answer: Poinsettia)
5. Which type of tree is commonly used as a Christmas decoration in Spain? (Answer: Fir tree)
6. What do families use to create a warm and festive atmosphere during Christmas? (Answer: Candles)
7. What sign of peace and joy is often displayed in Spanish homes during the holidays? (Answer: Christmas stars)
8. What is a popular material used for making Christmas ornaments in Spain? (Answer: Glass)
9. How do Spanish families often welcome guests into their homes during Christmas? (Answer: With open arms and laughter)
10. What public event marks the start of Christmas season with a lighting ceremony? (Answer: Plaza de Navidad)
Final Thoughts
Exploring Spanish Christmas traditions provides insights into a rich culture filled with delicious food, joyful music, and unique characters. From the enchanting tastes of turrón and cod to the festive carols sung each evening, the holiday season in Spain captures a spirit of warmth and togetherness. The fun characters like the Reyes Magos and the playful Caga Tió add a touch of magic to celebrations. Family gatherings that revolve around large feasts demonstrate the importance of community and shared traditions. With vibrant lights and a myriad of joyful customs, Spanish Christmas truly is an unforgettable experience.
This journey into Spanish Christmas festivities opens up a world of delightful possibilities and can inspire new ways to celebrate. If you’re interested in more festive trivia, check out our printable trivia and explore different cultures with our multiple-choice trivia. Happy holidays!