Best time to go to Spain

New Year's Eve 2024-2025

Eating 12 grapes, wearing red coloured underwear and preparing a special cake is only a part of the incredible celebration in Spain

Dates: December 31–January 1

New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve

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 "nochevieja."

Local NYE traditions

All cities are full of light, songs, and music. One tradition requires that you eat 12 grapes 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. Traditional food includes a special cake which is cut precisely at 12 o`clock.

Fireworks

The magic can't happen without fireworks. Locals believe that fire and noise will drive away evil spirits. According to beliefs, it's also important to wear red-colored underwear. On the morning of New Year's Day, locals and visitors eat chocolates or biscuits.

Where to go

Spain is jam-packed with cities to ring in the New year. Which one you choose depends on your priorities and preferences for 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 Balearic Islands and get sun-kissed as you green 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!

Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin