One of the most awaited dates in the Basque Country, and not only for children, is the arrival of Christmas. Just as in other places, Christmas is a very special date for a people who loves its traditions such as the Basque one, and it becomes a time of family meetings, crowded streets, lively markets and celebrations.

With the allowance of Santa Claus, the main carácter in Basque Christmas is “Olentzero”. This popular character was a coal miner who lived in the mountains, and who, according to tradition, when he found out that Jesús had been born, came down to the town wirh a sack full of presents to give away to children. Some experts say that the origin of this character is pre-Christian, and that he comes to announce Christmas. Integrated in the Christian tradition, now he is the one in charge of bringing presents on Christmas day.

Another important event is the traditional Christmas eve dinner, probably the most important ritual meal of the year and the most important family gathering. Traditionally Christmas eve, as said by the church, was a day when no meat coould be taken and before that, no food could be eaten at all. This has changed significantly. Christmas dinner varies from one region to another, but one could say that traditionally people have cooked cabbaga with oil and garlic, cauliflower, fish such as sea breams or cod, as well as or roast capon. For dessert, there must be nougat, “intxaursalsa” (dessert made out of wallnuts) or apple compote.