Christmas is a universal holiday, but the way it is celebrated reflects each country’s history, religion, and culture. Spain and Serbia share Christian roots, although their Christmas traditions differ significantly, mainly due to the predominance of Catholicism in Spain and the Orthodox Church in Serbia. This results in two distinct calendars, different rituals, and contrasting cuisines, making both celebrations a fascinating cultural universe.
In Spain, Christmas officially begins with the arrival of Advent, although the festive atmosphere can be felt from early December with the lighting of decorations and Christmas markets. December 22, marked by the famous Christmas Lottery draw, signals the emotional start of the holidays. Key dates include Christmas Eve (December 24), Christmas Day (25), New Year’s Eve (31), and, above all, the Feast of the Three Kings on January 6, a deeply rooted event that culminates in the Parade on January 5.
In Serbia, much of the population celebrates Christmas according to the Julian calendar, so the main day is not December 25 but January 7. Christmas Eve, called Badnje Veče, is celebrated on January 6 and holds very special symbolism. A notable tradition is the burning of the badnjak, an oak branch that represents prosperity and good luck for the coming year. Orthodox churches fill with worshippers, and the atmosphere is more solemn than festive, although family togetherness remains the central focus.
Gastronomy: A Tale of Contrasts
In Spain, Christmas Eve dinner is a moment of abundance: seafood, soups or consommés, roasted lamb or suckling pig, baked fish, and traditional cold cuts often fill the table. As for sweets, turrón, polvorones, marzipan, and the Roscón de Reyes—the undisputed star of January 6—stand out.
In Serbia, Christmas meals are shaped by the Orthodox tradition of pre-Christmas fasting. For example, Christmas Eve dinner is usually meat-free and includes dishes such as fish, beans, vegetable-stuffed cabbage, or cold salads. On Christmas Day, however, the menu becomes more substantial. The most emblematic dish is pečenje, typically roasted pork or lamb in a traditional style. Another tradition is česnica, a special bread with a hidden coin, shared among diners—whoever finds it will have good luck throughout the year. Instead of turrón, people enjoy walnuts, honey, and homemade desserts such as walnut-filled pita.
Although Spain and Serbia celebrate Christmas in very different ways, both share universal values: family, tradition, spirituality, and food that brings generations together. Spain experiences Christmas with Mediterranean joy and regional diversity, while Serbia maintains deep religious symbolism and a strong sense of community.
Two different ways of celebrating, equally heartwarming and rich in culture!
