Wow does the year go quickly! It’s almost winter again! But it’s still warm… Sometimes? The weather here is not normal, there were people in shorts and on the beach this weekend! But even though the weather is good, and the sun is shining, ’tis the season to be jolly! And we wanted to let you know what there is to do in the upcoming weeks to Christmas!
The Christmas spirit is slowly spreading…
In the first few days of November, you can start to see how little by little, the Christmassy adverts start appearing on TV, you start to appreciate the decorations in the shops, the stores full of advent calendars, turrones and mantecados… The Christmas magic is spread across faces of all ages, that almost unanimously can be seen when you walk through the streets. The most recognized street to be walking through at this time of year is Calle Larios, in Málaga. Each year they prepare lights and music shows for the fellow shoppers, and they out do themselves every time. This year the lights have been turned on on the 24th of November.
Coming activites
In Casares, on the 22nd of December we have the traditional “Belén Viviente“, which means live nativity scene. Children recreate the scenes, there are fires lit in the streets, animals, soldiers on the corners and a lot more. In addition to this, you can also enjoy live Christmas carols from the Rondalla band. This is something that you don’t see often, so come and don’t miss this amazing tradition! Starts at 7pm in the center of the village.
Other activities for these upcoming festive days can include a visit to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Andalusia. On the 2nd and 3rd of December in Gaucín, from 10am to 5pm, there will be live music, festive food including mulled wine, stalls with unique gifts such as mosaics and artisanal products… and a lot more!
Christmas means three things: food, family, and more food.
In Spain, they celebrate Christmas Eve and the Three Kings day more than Christmas day, although in some parts, some families have started giving presents on the 25th. Christmas Eve here is a day to be in good company, surrounded by family, and with a lot of food on the table!
The gastronomy here in general is marvellous, add that it’s Christmas, and it’s spectacular! Each family has their own tradition, whether it is eating in or out. The main dishes normally are a variety of good Iberian ham, artisanal cheese, prawns. And for the main courses are generally lamb, steaks, stuffed turkey with lots of side dishes and sauces.
But what is most important about this time of the year is family. It does not matter if one is up north, or another down south, or perhaps in another country, Christmas Eve is sacred, and it’s a time to be with your nearest and dearest.
It’s not what’s under the tree that matters; it’s who is round it. It’s the time that is spent with family, bad jokes, enjoying stories and the warmth of our loved ones, savouring a good meal, and the unevitable smiles.
And because of this, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year!
Rebecca Marriott | 29th November 2017
