New Year's Day
When is it celebrated
The New Year is celebrated on 1 January, a fixed date that inaugurates the calendar year. The welcome begins at midnight, at the end of 31 December: the twelve chimes mark the change of year and give way to the celebrations in the early hours of the 1st.
Is it a holiday or a working day?
1 January is a national, paid and non-refundable public holiday. The Workers' Statute expressly includes New Year's among the national holidays that must be respected; Even so, for practical matters it is advisable to consult the official work calendar for the corresponding year and the conditions of activities that operate on holidays.
Origin and geographical link
It is an internationally extended celebration of the beginning of the calendar year. In Spain it has a state character, while the most characteristic way of receiving it - the twelve grapes in time with the clock - is especially linked to Madrid and the chimes of Puerta del Sol, spread to the rest of the country.
Regular events
The celebration usually begins with a New Year's Eve dinner among family or friends. At midnight, twelve grapes are eaten, one with each bell, toasted and congratulations are exchanged. There are rallies in squares with a clock, parties in venues, hotels and restaurants, and musical or festive programming organised by numerous municipalities.
Usual duration of events
The central moment lasts the minutes around midnight, but the meetings normally cover dinner on 31 December and several hours into the early hours of 1 January. The schedules, capacity and public activities depend on the programme and security measures established each year in each location.
Traditions and history
The most recognisable Spanish custom consists of taking twelve lucky grapes following the twelve bells. Municipal sources place its popular origin in Madrid at the end of the 19th century and indicate that it was consolidated at the beginning of the 20th century. Today the chimes are followed from home on television or in public spaces; Puerta del Sol constitutes its most emblematic setting.
Where is it celebrated
It is celebrated throughout Spain, both in homes and leisure establishments as well as in squares and other emblematic points of cities and towns. The gathering in front of the Puerta del Sol clock in Madrid is the best-known public reference, although each locality can organise its own chimes and activities.
Who participates
Families, groups of friends, residents and visitors participate. City councils, security and emergency services, media and those responsible for establishments and shows also participate in public events; The specific organisation changes depending on the municipality and the annual programme.