CHRISTMAS: TRADITIONS, SPANISH VS BRITISH

BRITISH CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

- Christmas is the most popular festival in England. Their traditions have hundreds of years.
- The first Christmas card was sent in England around 1840. Currently in U.K., a lot of people send more than one billion cards annually.
- Christmas carols are sung around the Christmas Tree. A lot of Christmas carols were written in century XIX are very popular nowadays.
- In the doors, fireplaces and tables there are Christmas wreaths that mean the eternity of life.
- At Christmas Eve, children hang their stockings in the fireplace for Santa to put candies or presents inside of them.
- Message of the Queen. The tradition began in 1932 with king George V.
- 26^th December, Saint Esteban or Boxing Day is a day for collecting money.

SPANISH CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS 

- Nativity scene, represents Jesus Christ being born,  for the Catholic Religion.
- Christmas Plant o Poinsettia. Typical Christmas present.
- Ask for “Arguinaldo”. Children sing Christmas carols for presents, candies or a little money.
- Christmas Lottery is celebrated on 22^th December. This draw is performed since 1812. In Spain, it is popular to see some Children Drawing too.
- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are celebrated in Spanish homes with all the family.
- Kings Day is celebrated every 6^th January. It is a day devoted to children. The typical sweet this day is “Epiphany Cake”.