Living Christmas Differently: Costa Blanca vs Northern Europe

Having lived in different countries over the years, this year we are spending Christmas in Spain, away from Poland. With our family visiting us here on the Costa Blanca, it’s easy to see how differently people celebrate the holidays. Culture, traditions, and religion all play a role, but the weather and climate make a huge difference too. In Northern Europe, winter brings snow, cold, and short days, while here in southern Spain December can feel almost like summer, with sunshine, mild temperatures, and bright skies.

In Poland, Christmas is mostly about December 24th – Christmas Eve – with a family dinner of 12 meat-free dishes, religious traditions, and gifts in the evening. December 25th and 26th are spent at home with family, enjoying delicious food prepared specifically for this period. In Spain, the main celebrations are similar on December 24th, but the biggest moment for gifts is on January 6th, Three Kings’ Day. Children look forward to the parades, sweets, and finally opening presents on that day, which stretches the festive spirit over a longer period.

The holidays in Spain feel more social, as people go out, meet friends, and enjoy the season together in public spaces, not just at home. Food is a big part of the celebration too, but here it is more about enjoyment than strict tradition. Fresh seafood, tapas, wine, and long dinners with family or friends are typical, often enjoyed outdoors.

Living in Spain has shown us that Christmas can be different. On the Costa Blanca, the holidays are bright and sunny, a real contrast to the cozy, snowy Christmases we remember from the north.

What do you notice as the biggest difference in celebrating Christmas in Spain? What do you miss most when spending the holidays here?