_{Christmas tree}

The Christmas Crib is one of the main Portuguese Christmas traditions, especially if the person is of Catholic and Christian religion. On the day the Christmas tree is set up, which can usually vary from December 1 to 8, by tradition, the Christmas Crib is also placed, which is nothing less than a representation of the birth of Jesus Christ.

_{christmas crib}

Some more complete than others with or without animals, with or without wise men, the elements that cannot even be missing are the baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the angel behind the straws protecting the Messiah.

_{socks on the chimney}

Leaving a slipper of each family member under the Christmas tree or a custom sock on the chimney or other place of the house where gifts are exchanged is another of the Portuguese Christmas traditions not to be missed. After all, they symbolize the era of prosperity and sharing, hence putting a little gift inside each one of them.

_{Santa Claus}

Many families in Portugal perpetuate a tradition that, at the time of gift exchange, one of the elements escapes from the scene and dresses like Santa Claus to distribute the presents. This dynamic delights the little one, who truly believes that Santa is distributing the gifts, and it is a pleasure for the elders to see the little ones eyes shining with magic.

_{Christmas dinner}

If there is a meal that families fancy, it's Christmas Eve, also known as Consoada. And being one of the most breathtaking Portuguese Christmas traditions, there are elements that can not be missed: the cod cooked in some parts of the country, the octopus in others, and in others also the goat. When it comes to desserts, the indispensable ones are the vermicelli, milk cream, dreams, french toast, king cake and sponge cake.

_{Rooster Mass}

Rooster Mass takes place at midnight on December 24-25 and this is where the birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated. Still practiced by many churches and parishes in the country, this is one of the still existing Portuguese Christmas traditions and with plenty of people to join, grownups and kids alike.

_Domino

Nor are traditional games usually left out of the list of Portuguese Christmas traditions. As a rule, between the end of the Consoada and the time of the gift exchange, there is a time gap that is filled in many ways, one of them being the traditional games: this is the day to go to the chest and get the monopoly, bingo and other group board games for a good time of fun and lots of laughter.

_{Christmas Gift}

Finally, one of the Portuguese Christmas traditions relates to the time of gift exchange. Contrary to American culture, most Portuguese begin to exchange Christmas gifts to the sound of twelve December 24 bells. This ritual goes on until very late, so lunch on the 25th is also a little late. Happy traditions and happy Christmas!

Merry Christmas