Sponsored Satellite internet for Spain

Reliable internet when fiber is slow

High-speed satellite internet for towns where fiber is missing.

Check availability

Affiliate link. You receive one month of free service 30 days after activation.

Sponsored Spanish banking

Need a Spanish bank account? N26.

Open N26 in minutes and get EUR 50 in top stocks when you join.

Open N26

Affiliate link. EUR 50 stock bonus subject to N26 terms and availability.

Category

Culture

Latest Culture news and updates about Spain.

<- All News Categories
culture

Spain's Christmas Lottery: A Tradition of Joy and Generosity

As the festive season reaches its peak, Spain is abuzz with excitement for one of its most beloved and enduring traditions: the Spanish Christmas Lottery, affectionately known as "El Gordo" or "The Fat One." This year, on Sunday, December 22, 2024, the 213th edition of this iconic lottery will take place, distributing an astonishing €2.702 billion in prizes.

A Deep-Rooted Tradition

Since its inception in 1812, the Spanish Christmas Lottery has been a cornerstone of Spanish culture. Originally created to raise funds for Spanish troops fighting Napoleon’s invasion, it has evolved into a national event that unites millions of people across the country. The lottery is officially known as "El Sorteo Extraordinario de Navidad" or "Lotería de Navidad," but the nickname "El Gordo" reflects the substantial prize money involved.

Read more ->
culture

Festive Spirit Pedals Through Astillero: Santa Claus Cyclists Take to the Streets

In the charming town of Astillero, located in the Cantabria region of Spain, the holiday season has taken on a unique and joyful twist. On December 22, 2024, the town celebrated a special event that combined the spirit of Christmas with a passion for cycling.

The Santa Claus Cyclist March

The event, known as the "Marcha Ciclista de Papá Noel" or the Santa Claus Cyclist March, saw participants donning festive Santa Claus costumes as they pedaled through the streets of Astillero. This annual tradition has become a beloved part of the town's holiday celebrations, attracting both local residents and visitors from nearby areas.

Read article ->
culture

Spain Gears Up for the Annual 'El Gordo' Christmas Lottery Frenzy

As the festive season approaches, Spain is abuzz with excitement for the annual 'El Gordo' Christmas lottery draw, a tradition that has captivated the nation since 1812. This year, the anticipation is palpable, with hundreds of Spaniards and expats alike queuing up in front of lottery outlets, eager to secure their tickets for the December 22 draw.

A Time-Honored Tradition

The 'El Gordo' lottery, translating to 'The Fat One' in English, is not just a lottery but a deeply ingrained national tradition. First held in Cádiz in 1812, it has been a staple of Spanish Christmas celebrations for over two centuries. The draw takes place every year on December 22, a date that marks the beginning of the holiday season for many Spaniards.

Read article ->
culture

TVE President Apologizes for 'Catalanophobia' Incident Involving Journalist and Spanish Coach'

In a recent controversy that has sparked widespread outrage, the President of Spain's public broadcaster, TVE (Televisión Española), has been forced to issue an apology for an incident involving allegations of "Catalanophobia." This incident has highlighted the ongoing tensions and sensitivities surrounding Catalan identity and language in Spain.

The Incident

The controversy arose when a TVE journalist made comments that were perceived as dismissive and disrespectful towards Catalan, a language spoken in the autonomous community of Catalonia. The incident involved an exchange between the journalist and a Catalan coach during a live broadcast. The comments were swiftly condemned by Catalan media outlets and public figures, who accused the journalist of displaying "Catalanophobia," a term used to describe prejudice or hostility towards Catalan culture and language.

Read article ->
culture

Christmas Celebrations Kick Off in Trasmiera, Cantabria, with Family-Friendly Activities

As the festive season unfolds, the region of Trasmiera in Cantabria, Spain, is gearing up to celebrate Christmas with a plethora of activities designed for the whole family. The festivities, which began on December 23, promise to bring joy and excitement to both locals and expats alike.

Festive Atmosphere and Traditional Events

The Christmas celebrations in Trasmiera are characterized by a rich blend of traditional events and modern activities. The town squares are adorned with vibrant decorations, and the air is filled with the aroma of traditional Christmas treats. One of the highlights of the festivities is the visit from Papa Noel (Santa Claus), who will be making appearances throughout the region to spread holiday cheer.

Read article ->
culture

Unique Christmas Characters and Traditions in Catalonia

As the festive season unfolds in Catalonia, the region comes alive with a array of unique and colorful Christmas characters and traditions that set it apart from other parts of Spain. Here’s a glimpse into the vibrant and often quirky world of Catalan Christmas celebrations.

The Tió de Nadal: A Log with a Special Gift

One of the most iconic and bizarre Catalan Christmas traditions is the Tió de Nadal, or "Caga Tió" (Defecating Log). This wooden log, painted with a smiling face and adorned with a red hat, is a central figure in many Catalan households. Children feed Tió with treats and cover it with a blanket, and on Christmas Day or the days leading up to it, they beat it with sticks while singing a special song. The log then "poops" out presents, usually small candies or nuts, which the children eagerly collect[5].

Read article ->