Madrid celebrates New Year's Eve, which is called "Nochevieja" in Spain, with lots of pyrotechnics, lights, and music. A tradition requires that people eat 12 grapes, one at every stroke of the clock as it nears midnight on New Year's Eve. Each grape brings good luck and prosperity for every month of the upcoming year. And Madrid's main square Puerta del Sol is where many locals want to eat their grapes while Real Casa de Correos clock strikes midnight.
Puerta del Sol Countdown
Puerta del Sol attracts thousands on the evening of December 31. The beautiful lighting of the Real Casa de Correos, as well as the fireworks and confetti show, contribute to the unique Madrid New Year's Eve experience.
Right before midnight, the ball, located in the upper part of the city hall tower, is lowered to the sound of carillon bells. Then, after four warning tolls, the clock strikes 12 times, and people rush to eat their grapes. After that, people have some champagne and head to parties and clubs to dance till the wee hours.
Puerta del Sol gets very crowded on New Year's Eve. At 11:30 pm, it's already completely packed with people. To avoid disappointment, get to the square early. Also, most clubs in downtown Madrid enjoy higher than usual demand on New Year's Eve, so make your reservation and purchase tickets in advance.
