In the world there are a huge variety of nations and nationalities, all have their own traditions and customs, especially with regard to various celebrations. The period loved by all is winter celebrations associated with the change of the year and other historical events. In each country they are celebrated in their own way - with a huge decorated Christmas tree and gifts under it, presents in socks on the fireplace, miniatures of scenes from the Bible and sweet striped caramel, Santa Claus and Snow Maiden and Santa Claus, in other states - Joulupukki or Peer Noel, St Nicholas. And of course in Spain, on its southern Costa del Sol coast and a favorite city for tourists - Marbella also has its traditions for the holidays.
To begin with, it should be noted that the festive period in Spain begins on December 8, from the Immaculate Conception Day and lasts until January 6 - the Day of the Three Kings. For the Spaniards, these are the same special days as for the Russians - the old New Year. For some generations that have come out of the last century, these children are tightly connected with the very old and largest national lottery in the world, where the prize draw is held on the 22nd. At this point, family members, friends or colleagues gather in front of the TV with the purchased lottery ticket and carefully watch the program. For many residents, this coupon is an excellent gift for loved ones.
DECOR AND GIFTS
Mandatory detail of festive decorations in Marbella are miniature decorative sculptures that depict various biblical moments, convey the story of the birth of Christ or old Bethlehem. By the way, the Spaniards call him Belen. A week before Christmas, the figures of the Holy Family, shepherds and the Magi with gifts are placed. A special charm gives a character named Kaganer or the figures of popular flamenco performers. This is especially true for the Catalan culture and the classic spirit of Andalusia.
In the north of the country, traditional Christmas trees are set up in the houses, but Marbella and elite resorts in its vicinity are located in the south, which is why they are characterized by the use of lush pines. Here, the whole family gets great pleasure when they dress up a festive tree with sparkling toys and bright tinsel, and this happens around mid-December. Children are given beautifully decorated gifts with the arrival of Los Tres Reyes Magos, they are looking forward to toys on Christmas Eve and Christmas. That is characteristic - Grandfather Frost in any of its national manifestations is considered a minor character, because the Magi bring presents to the little Spaniards.
FESTIVE TABLE
As in many other countries, Marbella residents also make up the Christmas menu and serve the best dishes of the national cuisine:
- The most typical are products from the sea, in particular - seafood soup as the basis of a feast;
- Prepare also stuffed turkey;
- Or roast lamb;
- And necessarily a variety of fruits;
- Required many snacks - jamon, cheese sliced and olives (important - not olives);
- As a dessert - nougat, chocolate and almond sweets;
- And, of course, one cannot do without white, red or sparkling cava and cider.
About ten o'clock in the evening the family sits down at the table, while it is customary to observe a certain dress code. And by midnight they go to church together to listen to the mass and singing of the choir.
NEW YEAR'S CUSTOMS
If Christmas is a family holiday, it is customary to celebrate New Year in Marbella with friends. This is a fun and noisy period, which must be met with delight. There is a tradition on New Year's midnight - be sure to eat twelve happy grapes so that all the 12 coming months will be filled with happiness, success and other pleasant wishes. They need to eat one at a time, every second to the solemn battle of the bells in the central square of the capital, Puerta del Sol, and then drink sparkling and delicious cava. If you do not want to celebrate at home, the best restaurants and public institutions decorated with the appropriate theme, where festivities are held, will be opened in Marbella. Some even offer a special menu item that includes all national dishes and wines.
