Know more about the Christmas experience in Europe: Traditions, gastronomy and inspiration for the Christmas table

GET TO KNOW MORE ABOUT CHRISTMAS IN EUROPE:
TRADITIONS, GASTRONOMY AND INSPIRATIONS
FOR THE CHRISTMAS TABLE

In Portugal, Christmas is synonymous with family and tradition. Consoada – Christmas dinner – is one of the most special moments, where the table is filled with typical dishes and charming decorations. From north to south, each region brings its own essence to Christmas, with special emphasis on the bacalhau com todos a classic in many Portuguese homes on Christmas Eve.

Regional traditions

In the North, it’s common to find tables where octopus is king. It is cooked in a variety of ways, from roast to stew. In the center and south, the cod and kid are the most common dishes, accompanied by potatoes, cabbage and quality olive oil. A Christmas table decorations table

is simple but full of warmth. A Christmas tablecloth, where the red and gold tones take pride of place, a Christmas centerpiece with candles, pine cones and sprigs of holly, make the moment even more special. And of course, you can’t miss the king cake or queen cake at the end of the meal, accompanied by hot tea or coffee.

Tableware from the BREEZY collection

Spain: Christmas and Three Kings Day

In Spain, Christmas lasts until January 6th, the King’s Day, which is just as important, if not more so, than Christmas Eve itself. On this day, children eagerly await the arrival of the Three Wise Men, who bring gifts and spread joy. In the streets, the Cabalgatas de Reyes a magical show full of lights and music. As for the Christmas table

in Spain, it’s common to have simple but elegant Christmas table decorations that include fresh flowers and candles. Simplicity reigns, but attention to detail makes all the difference.

Tableware from the COMPORTA collection

Central Europe: the feast of St. Nicholas

In Central Europe, especially in Belgium, Germany and Austria, one of the most eagerly awaited festivals is that of St. Nicholasis celebrated at the beginning of December. This tradition marks the beginning of the Christmas celebrations, and is especially important for children, who receive small gifts and sweets in their Christmas boots/socks.

Germany: Advent wreaths and calendars

In Germany, Christmas begins with the preparation of the Advent Wreath and the Advent Calendarwhere every day is marked with little treats and surprises. German families fill their homes with lights and traditional decorations, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.

At the German Christmas tablethe dishes are just as important as the decorations. The simplicity of Christmas centerpiece is complemented by typical dishes such as roast goose or sausages with sauerkraut. Um arranjo de Natal com velas e pinhas não pode faltar na decoração da mesa.

Decorating the Christmas table: elegance and tradition

Decorating the Christmas table is one of the central elements of this celebration. And the beauty is in the details. It doesn’t have to be overly elaborate – all it takes is a simple centerpiece and a few touches of color to turn any meal into something memorable.

If you want to create a charming Christmas table, start by choosing a tablecloth with festive motifs and complement it with natural Christmas arrangements, such as pine boughs or holly. For a more original touch, you can add original centerpieces, such as white or red candles inside decorative glasses, or even create your own table markers with hand-painted pine cones.

Don’t forget the dishes! A good christmas dinner service can turn your table into a work of art. For an even more welcoming atmosphere, the mugs or Christmas glasses add the finishing touch to this decoration. And of course, for those more attentive to detail, small decorative objects such as stars or Christmas ornaments among the plates and cutlery make all the difference.

Tableware from the BREEZY collection

BREEZY Collection

T-Light & ROSSIO glass candlestick

Typical Christmas dishes around Europe

The Christmas table is where the magic happens, and throughout Europe, the typical dishes vary according to the region. In Portugal, as we’ve already mentioned, cod is the dish of choice, but around the world there are other Christmas delights to explore.

In Germany roast goose is traditionally served with red cabbage and potatoes. In France, it is common to foie gras and oysters are part of the meal. And in Austria Wiener Schnitzel is one of the main dishes, accompanied by fresh salads and intense sauces.