December 26, Saint Stephen's Day
If December 25th is the heart of Christmas, December 26th, Boxing Day, is the more familiar and genuinely Catalan continuation. It's a unique day that reflects the Catalan Christmas spirit: reuniting, sharing a table, and extending the warmth of Christmas for another day.
The feast of Saint Stephen has ancient roots. In the Middle Ages, when travel was slow and families lived scattered across regions, the Church declared that day a holiday so everyone could return home after Christmas. Over time, the tradition was maintained, and today it remains a much-loved and eagerly awaited date for Catalans.
After the intensity of the 25th, December 26th is synonymous with tranquility and reunion. Many families take advantage of the day to visit relatives they missed the day before or to gather around a table filled with home-cooked food. One of the most iconic dishes of Catalan cuisine is never missing: Saint Stephen's Day cannelloni, made with leftovers from the Christmas roast or chicken. This culinary tradition, now a reflection of popular wisdom and the importance of not throwing anything away.
Cannelloni is often accompanied by a good glass of wine or cava and a relaxed atmosphere, with long conversations, laughter, and after-dinner games. In many homes, Christmas carols are still played in the background, or the opportunity is taken to play the "tió" with the little ones if it hasn't been done on the 24th or 25th.
In towns and cities, some cultural organizations and choirs organize Christmas concerts, live nativity scenes, and other activities to keep the magic of the season alive.
Saint Stephen's Day is, therefore, more than a holiday; it's a celebration of family ties and tradition. A day celebrated this way only in Catalonia, reminding us that Christmas doesn't end with gifts, but continues with the pleasure of sharing time and food with those we love most.
