Today, 22 December, is one of the most eagerly awaited moments of the year in Spain: the Christmas Lottery draw. But this is not just a lottery, it is a tradition full of emotion, dreams and, above all, a lot of excitement. Whether you live in Spain or are learning Spanish from another corner of the world, understanding this custom is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture and practice the language.
Can you imagine what it would be like to hear the winning numbers live and understand everything? Well, read on, because I'm going to tell you everything you need to know about this special tradition.
What makes the Christmas Lottery unique?
The Christmas Lottery is unlike any other.This lottery has been running since 1812, more than 200 years ago! And it is not only its age that makes it special, but also the atmosphere it generates.
But the most peculiar thing is how the draw is carried out. Every December 22nd, at the Teatro Real in Madrid, the children of San Ildefonso sing the winning numbers. Yes, they sing them.
The most awaited prize is called El Gordo. But best of all, there are many smaller prizes, so it is said that the Christmas Lottery ‘distributes luck’ in a big way.
Traditions and superstitions surrounding the draw
If there is one thing that makes the Christmas Lottery fun, it is the many rituals and traditions that surround it:
- Choosing special numbers: Many people choose a number that has meaning for them, such as an important date or a number they consider to be lucky.
-Sharing tickets: Buying a ticket from friends, family or work colleagues is almost a must. As well as increasing the chances of winning, this means that the prize is enjoyed as a group.
-Curious superstitions: Some people keep the lottery tickets in special places, such as in a drawer with red underwear (it is said to bring luck).Others prefer to buy it in ‘mythical’ administrations where they have already won important prizes in previous years.
-Watching the draw as a family: It is typical to turn on the TV in the morning and listen to the children singing the prizes.
What vocabulary to learn with the Lotería de Navidad?
If you're learning Spanish, the Lotería de Navidad is a goldmine of vocabulary. Here are some typical words and expressions that will help you understand everything that happens:
-Décimo: This is the lottery ticket.Each tenth costs 20 euros.
-El Gordo: The biggest prize in the lottery.
-Minor prizes: All the prizes that are not El Gordo but that also brighten up the day.
-Lottery administration: The shop where you buy your ticket.
-Children of San Ildefonso: The stars of the draw, who sing the winning numbers.
-La pedrea: A shower of small prizes, perfect for recovering your investment.
Imagine practising this vocabulary while watching the draw or talking to Spanish friends about their tickets.
What makes the Christmas Lottery so special?
The Christmas Lottery is not just about winning money.It is an event that brings people together.
At a time like Christmas, when we are already surrounded by family gatherings and good wishes, this draw adds an extra touch of magic.
It's exciting to see a whole family celebrating because they've won a prize, or a group of friends shouting with joy as they share El Gordo. Even if you don't win anything, participating or simply living the moment makes you part of something great.
Moreover, the fact that the prizes are so widely distributed makes it difficult to find someone who doesn't know someone who has won something. It's almost as if the whole country shares in the luck.
Learn Spanish through traditions
Did you know that participating in traditions like the Christmas Lottery can help you learn Spanish? Observing how Spaniards live this day, learning the words related to the lottery or even talking about it with your friends is a practical and fun way to improve your language.
If you are passionate about learning a language, the best thing you can do is to immerse yourself in its culture. Watching the Christmas lottery draw, understanding the expressions used or even imagining what you would do if you won El Gordo is a perfect opportunity to practice.
And you, what would you do if you won?
Now that you know more about the Christmas Lottery, tell me:
Would you buy a ticket if you lived in Spain? What would you do if you won a prize?
Whatever the case, remember that the real wealth lies in learning and enjoying the journey. Spanish is like a winning ticket: the more you practice it, the more rewards you get.
Merry Christmas and good luck!
