How to Celebrate a Spanish Christmas

Turron (Spanish almond candy)

The Christmas celebration in predominantly Catholic Spain takes on a distinctive religious tone. That's not to say, however, that it isn't festive. Spain has its own food, dance and decorating customs.

Instructions

1. Make turron (also called Toro), the traditional Spanish candy. It's made from honey, sugar, eggs and toasted almonds, and every region of Spain has its own variation. Turron is served with sherry or port after a meal during the holiday season.

2. Decorate with a nativity scene. The nativity plays a prominent place in Spanish holiday decorating, much as the Christmas tree does in American households. Sets vary from a simple Mary, Joseph and Christ in the manger to elaborate collections that include sheep, wise men, shepherds and other figures.

3. Dance the jota. This festive dance is a holiday tradition. It is similar to a waltz with a few leaps added for drama. The jota is customarily accompanied by guitar music and castenets.

4. Attend Christmas Eve mass. Midnight mass on Christmas eve is the centerpiece of any Spanish Christmas celebration. Following the service, family and friends exchange gifts and feast on tapas (small plates of olives, sausages and seafood) and sparkling wine. The festivities often flow right into Christmas day.