New Year's Eve 2024-2025 in Spain

Like all other places in the world, the New Year is celebrated in Spain with great enthusiasm and special traditions. This time is magical for locals as they spend a lot of time preparing for these celebrations. The Spanish call this day the "La Nochevieja."

Local NYE Traditions & Food

All cities are filled to the brim with light, songs, and music. One tradition requires that you eat twelve grapes one by one at every stroke of the clock as it strikes midnight on New Year's Eve. Each grape is meant to bring good luck and prosperity for each month of the upcoming year. While mainly a family traditions, many Spaniards gather in the city squares to meet the New Year and enjoy grapes together.

Other traditional food, which is commonly eaten on New Year's Eve, includes a special cake cut at midnight. The following day, Spaniards eat churros in the morning to fill the upcoming year with warmth and sweetness. Lentil soup is also commonly eaten on New Year's Day and is said to bring fortune, as well as relieve hangover symptoms from the night before. According to some beliefs, it's also important to wear red-colored underwear to attract Cupid and love in the new year. On the morning of New Year's Day, locals and visitors eat chocolates or biscuits.

Fireworks

The magic can't happen without fireworks. Locals believe that fire and noise will drive away evil spirits. Fireworks are launched all across Spain, organized both by the cities and by the local residents.

Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Spain

Spain is jam-packed with cities to ring in the New Year. Which one you choose depends on your priorities and preferences for the NYE celebration. If you feel like cozying up in a blanket in one of Spain's authentic villages, just rent an apartment or house there. If you're up to a tropical vibe, head to Ibiza or the Balearic Islands and get sun-kissed as you greet the New Year.

However, if you want to experience the real Spanish traditions, we suggest opting for big cities, especially–Madrid, which honors the country's history and is all traditions. Other cities you can plan your trip to are Valencia, Granada, Barcelona, Sevilla, and others. It's all up to you–just remember to book your housing in advance!

New Year's Eve Celebration in Madrid at Puerta del Sol

Puerta del Sol is known for being the bustling hub of Madrid and the centre of the city and the road network of Spain. On New Year's Eve, the square is filled to the brim with thousands of people, wanting to experience the quintessential experience of Spanish New Year' Eve. The famous clock at the top of the clocktower chimes the countdown to the New Year, during which everyone hurries to eat their grapes as soon as possible. While the main event takes place closer to midnight, there will be numerous other attractions at the square, including performances, drinks, and dancing, starting from 9:30 pm.

New Year's Eve Show in Barcelona

If you find yourself in Barcelona on New Year's Eve, consider swinging by La Fuente de Montjuic, also known as the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. Although the city was recently blessed with rain after a four-year-long drought, fountains might not be working, but you're still in for a spectacle. The entertainment program, featuring performances, begins at approximately 11 pm, followed by the main highlight–a fireworks or drone show.

New Year's Eve Party in Alicante

Alicante, similar to other cities in Spain, throws a myriad of celebratory parties to mark the end of the year. One of those parties is set to take place at the OVER club and offers an unforgettable night with champagne toast, dancing, and a delicious dinner. Tickets start at €20 for a party and two drinks and go up to €80 for dinner and drinks.