Spanish and Catalan culture
Learn more about our traditions!
In this category of the Dime Barcelona blog you will find interesting articles that will help you discover Spanish and Catalan culture.
You will learn about literature, cinema, traditions, festivals, gastronomy, and much more. Learning about Spanish culture not only involves mastering the language but also understanding the customs, values and celebrations that characterize it. From the famous festivals of "La Tomatina" and "Las Fallas" to internationally renowned culinary traditions like paella and gazpacho, these articles will allow you to grasp the richness and variety of Spanish culture.
Additionally, you will find specific articles about Catalan festivals and traditions, which will broaden your knowledge about the city of Barcelona and Catalonia.
The Tradition of the Three Wise Men
The tradition of the Three Wise Men travels the world, leaving gifts for children on the night of January 5th, making the 6th the most magical day of the year. Let's explore its origins and how the final celebration of the Spanish Christmas season is observed. Will you join us?
Happy Christmas!
The Dime School wishes you a Merry Christmas!
Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, lucky grapes, Spanish Christmas traditions
On December 24th, Spain celebrates Christmas Eve (La Nochebuena), a night to spend with family, enjoying a festive dinner, sweets, and Christmas carols. On December 31st, New Year's Eve (La Nochevieja) is celebrated with the so-called "lucky grapes," a symbol of good fortune and prosperity for the coming year. Join us, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know to celebrate these special nights!
The Christmas Lottery "El Gordo"
El Gordo de Navidad is a prize from Spain's National Lottery and an essential part of Christmas traditions. It takes place on December 22nd, and the beauty of this lottery lies not in the prize itself but in sharing it with family and friends. El Gordo de Navidad is more than just a lottery; it is a tradition that represents the joy, hope, and generosity of the Spanish Christmas season.
Spanish Christmas Treats
Spanish Christmas festivities feature their typical sweets, which hold a special place on every table. Turrón, mantecados, polvorones, and marzipan, with the grand finale: the Roscón de Reyes. Do you want to learn more about these treats? Join us!
Christmas Markets in Barcelona
If there's something we love about the holiday season, it's the Christmas markets. In Barcelona, we can enjoy several fairs to share with family and friends. Santa Llúcia, the Fira de la Sagrada Família, the Fira de Reis, and the Fira de Nadal del Port Vell are waiting for us. Let’s enjoy Christmas!
The origin of Christmas carols
Christmas is coming, along with its typical soundtrack: Christmas carols. But do you know their origin? No, it's not Mariah Carey. Originally, the songs associated with Christmas festivities were not exclusively festive; they were simply popular songs that covered all kinds of topics. Here, we explain their origins and how they evolved into the carols we know today.
The Day of the Dead
The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico's most prominent celebrations. It was born from the fusion of pre-Hispanic rituals and the Catholic festivities brought by the Spanish. Declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, it celebrates life, memory, and the connection between different generations.
San Juan
June 24th is “San Juan”, one of the most popular Spanish festivities. Discover what Spanish people generally do and eat during this special night to welcome the summer.
Timetables in Spain
Many Spanish people claim that “Spain is different”, and it is in many ways a particular country. What seems to stand out the most to foreign visitors is that, in Spain everything happens later than in other countries. Discover Spanish timetables!
