Castilla-La Mancha Day

📣 Traveler notes

Spain is known for its friendly culture, relaxed lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, and world-renowned cuisine. It is a cultural hub with a large number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Cities.

• New Year's Eve (Nochevieja) involves the tradition of eating twelve grapes as the clock chimes midnight at Puerta del Sol in Madrid.
• The countdown ('las campanadas') is broadcast live on national television, and people often follow the chimes from major public squares.
• Fireworks displays typically follow the ringing of the twelve chimes at midnight.
• When meeting people, physical contact is common (kissing on both cheeks for friends/family; a firm handshake is fine for others). Punctuality is valued, though arriving up to ten minutes late is generally acceptable. It is advised to bring and use slippers when visiting a private home. When dining, wait until everyone is seated to begin, and do not leave the table until all guests have finished.