National Day of Catalonia

📣 Traveler notes

Spain is known for its vibrant culture, cuisine, and nightlife, and boasts a rich history reflected in its numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Travelers should be prepared for a highly social and expressive atmosphere.

• On New Year's Eve (Nochevieja), a tradition involves eating 12 grapes as the clock strikes midnight (las campanadas) at the Puerta del Sol in Madrid.
• The New Year's celebrations are broadcast live on national television, and fireworks typically follow the chiming midnight hour.
• Maintain general tact and politeness in conversations, as direct criticism or aggressive comments may be perceived as rude. When eating, it is common practice to pay the bill equally (pagar a escote). When receiving an offer (e.g., food or drink), initially declining it is often considered polite, even if the host insists.