Each country has its own Christmas traditions when it comes to foods, celebrations, gifts, activities, and more. In Spain, there are some rather unique festive traditions including Catalonia’s Tió de Nadal or Caga Tió (the, “Pooing Log,”), a small log painted with a face that is cared for by children throughout December before being beaten with sticks and pulling back the blanket over it to reveal a stash of small gifts and sweets on Christmas Eve or Day.
This somewhat odd but charming tradition is certainly one that those spending Christmas on vacation in Spain might enjoy engaging with but more people still might want to add to their luck of already being on holiday in Spain. Make it a Christmas to remember by getting away to a villa in Spain and then join locals by entering the Christmas lotto – maybe you’ll even get to extend the vacation!
Dating all the way back to 1812, the Sorteo Extraordinario de Navidad or Lotería de Navidad (you can play online by heading to their website) is the second-longest continuously running lottery in the world and is a key tradition for locals each year.
The draw takes place on the 22nd of December, with a top price called, El Gordo (“The Fat One”) that can be up to €4, 000, 000! Second prize is usually around €1,000,000 to €1,250,000. Lower amounts of €50,000 to €60,000 and down to €1,000 are also on offer for various other prizes.
If you don’t win at Christmas, there’s another chance to play the festive lotto while on vacation in Spain over the Holidays as the second most important draw is held before the feast of Epiphany on the 6th of January.
This is fun way to join in on Spanish tradition and maybe – if you are lucky enough – win money to come back for another holiday in Spain for an entry fee of just €20. Come enjoy a villa in Spain this Christmas and maybe return home with a very special Christmas gift!
