Celebrating Christmas in Puerto Rico: A Guide to the World’s Longest Holiday Season
If you think the holiday season is a big deal in the United States, you haven’t experienced Christmas in Puerto Rico. The island is famous for having the longest holiday season in the world, starting in November and stretching all the way to the end of January. It’s a festive and joyous time filled with unique traditions, delicious food, and non-stop celebrations. Here’s your guide to experiencing a Puerto Rican Christmas.
The Timeline
- November: The holiday season officially kicks off on Thanksgiving Day, with many families putting up their Christmas decorations this weekend.
- December: The month is filled with holiday parties, religious services, and festive events. Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) is the main event, with a big family feast.
- January: The celebrations continue with New Year’s Day, followed by the all-important Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day) on January 6th. The season culminates with the massive San Sebastián Street Festival in Old San Juan, a week-long party that marks the official end of the holidays.
Key Traditions
- Parrandas: This is the Puerto Rican version of Christmas caroling, but with a lot more energy and spontaneity. A group of friends gathers late at night to surprise another friend at their home with music and singing. The surprised host then offers food and drinks and joins the group as they move on to the next house.
- Traditional Food: No Puerto Rican Christmas is complete without a feast of traditional holiday dishes. This includes lechón (roast suckling pig), pasteles (a type of tamale made with green bananas and filled with meat), and arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).
- Coquito: The official drink of Christmas in Puerto Rico, coquito is a creamy, coconut-based beverage similar to eggnog, but made with rum.
Where to See the Best Decorations
San Juan is beautifully decorated for the holidays. Take a stroll through Old San Juan to see the historic buildings adorned with lights and garlands. The Condado neighborhood is also known for its festive decorations.
Holiday Events
Throughout the season, you’ll find a variety of holiday concerts, festivals, and markets. Check local event listings for details on what’s happening during your visit.
Experience a Boricua Christmas
Celebrating the holidays in Puerto Rico is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. By staying in a KTJ Krug luxury rental, you’ll have the perfect home base for enjoying all the festivities. You can even try your hand at cooking some traditional holiday dishes in your own gourmet kitchen. Book your holiday getaway today and get ready to experience the magic of a Puerto Rican Christmas!