Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha)

📣 Traveler notes

Spain is known for its welcoming atmosphere, rich culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural heritage. It boasts a high number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offers a variety of experiences ranging from traditional festivities to modern urban life.

• New Year's Eve (Nochevieja) tradition involves eating 12 grapes at midnight.
• One grape is eaten for each of the 12 chimes of the clock.
• The Puerta del Sol in Madrid is a primary location for New Year celebrations.
• Live broadcasts of 'las campanadas' are available on national TV channels.
• Fireworks typically follow the final chime at midnight.
• Special grape packs containing exactly 12 grapes are sold before the holiday.
• Spaniards are generally warm and expressive; physical contact during conversation is common. While social interactions can be informal—including the use of friendly insults among peers—it is best for travelers to remain polite. Respect local customs regarding family, religion (especially during Holy Week and Christmas), and regional sensitivities like Catalan or Basque independence. When dining, it is customary to wait until everyone is served before eating and to split the bill equally. In social settings, offers of food or drink are often politely declined initially; persistence is expected as a sign of courtesy.