Author: Constanza Jeldres

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The language today

Words in Spanish That Have Changed Their Meaning Over Time (And Surprised Us Along the Way!)

Spanish never stops surprising us. It’s a living language that evolves with the people who speak it, and a clear example of this is the words whose meanings have changed over time. Some have transformed so much that if we travelled back in time, people would probably give us strange looks for using them the way we do today. Here are some linguistic stories that will make you smile.

Villano (Villain)

Today, we call the “villano” the evil character in a movie or the antagonist of a story. But if we go back a few centuries, the term had a humbler origin: a “villano” was simply someone who lived in a small village. So, how did a humble villager turn into a sinister character? Over time, the term acquired negative connotations by associating with lower-class people and, later, with questionable behaviour.

Bizarro (Bizarre)

This word is a perfect example of an unexpected twist. Originally, “bizarro” meant brave, generous, or noble, something worthy of a hero. However, the influence of the English word bizarre turned it into a synonym for strange or unusual. Today, depending on who you ask, it could mean either one.

Azafata (Flight Attendant)

Today, we think of an “azafata” as a friendly person who assists us on an aeroplane. But initially, the term referred to a lady-in-waiting in a royal court who served queens and princesses. It wasn’t until the 20th century, with the rise of air travel, that the word began to be used for the cabin crew. Pretty interesting, right? From palaces to the sky!

Formidable

Today, we say something is “formidable” to mean excellent, impressive, or outstanding. However, in its origin, this word had a darker nuance. It came from the Latin formidabilis, which meant “fear-inspiring” or “terrible.” Over time, that initial fear transformed into admiration, making the term more positive.

Burro (Donkey)

Yes, we all know the word “burro” refers to a lovable animal (or someone who isn’t very intelligent, though that’s a bit unfair). But did you know that in Latin, burricus meant “small horse”? What started as an elegant term ended up becoming much more rural.

Rodilla (Knee)

If you thought “rodilla” always referred only to the knee joint, think again. In Old Spanish, this word was also used to describe the elbow. Imagine the confusion in a medical conversation from that time!

Almohada (Pillow)

“Almohada” is an Arabic word (al-mukhadda) meaning “the place where you rest your cheek.” Though its function hasn’t changed much, the term has evolved across centuries and regions to become the sweet place where we rest our heads every night.

Botella (Bottle)

Nowadays, we think of a “botella” as a glass container, but in the Middle Ages, the term referred to clay jugs. With the arrival of new materials, the word evolved into the meaning we know today.

These stories remind us that Spanish is much more than just grammar rules: it’s a time machine reflecting our history and culture. Do you know of any other words that have changed their meaning? Please share your favourite, and let’s keep exploring the wonders of our language together!

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The language today

New Words in the RAE! From “Espóiler” to “Teletrabajar”: How Our Language Evolves

Hey there, word enthusiasts! The Spanish language, as vibrant as it is, is constantly evolving. The Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) updates its dictionary annually, reflecting how people speak. The latest update is no exception, with over 4,000 changes, including new words, updated definitions, and even some long-awaited acknowledgements of terms we’ve used for years. Let’s explore a few of the highlights and what they mean for the evolution of Spanish.

Espóiler

We’ve all been there. You’re midway through a series or eagerly waiting to watch a movie, and someone drops a spoiler. Now, the word “espóiler” is officially part of the dictionary. Borrowed from English, it refers to revealing key plot points that ruin a fictional work’s surprise element. While some language purists criticise the use of anglicisms, the reality is that terms like this have become so ingrained in everyday conversation that their inclusion feels natural. After all, language evolves to meet the needs of its speakers.

Teletrabajar

If there’s one word that perfectly encapsulates the pandemic era, it’s “teletrabajar.” This term, meaning to work remotely using telecommunication tools, became a part of our collective vocabulary as millions worldwide transitioned to working from home. The RAE’s formal recognition acknowledges the societal shift in how we approach work. With remote work becoming a permanent option for many, this term isn’t going anywhere.

Sérum

For skincare aficionados, “sérum” is hardly a novelty. This lightweight cosmetic product, applied before heavier creams, targets specific skin concerns like hydration or anti-ageing. Including this word highlights how lifestyle trends, such as the growing emphasis on skincare, influence the evolution of language. Beauty enthusiasts everywhere can point to the dictionary and say, “See? It’s official!”

Dana

Although it might sound like a name, “dana” is an acronym for Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos (Isolated Depression in Upper Levels). This meteorological phenomenon often brings intense storms and heavy rainfall, particularly in some areas of Spain. Given its growing importance in weather reports and climate discussions, its addition to the dictionary reflects how language adapts to describe our environment and its challenges.

Barista

Coffee culture has exploded in recent years, and so has the term “barista.” A barista is a professional who prepares high-quality coffee, often with impressive latte art. The word’s inclusion in the dictionary is a nod to the global influence of coffee culture and its growing importance in daily life.

Tabulé

Culinary terms often enter the dictionary as global cuisines become more accessible. Tabulé, a Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and other fresh ingredients, is one such example. Its recognition in the RAE dictionary is a testament to how food connects cultures and enriches our vocabulary.

More New Additions

The latest update isn’t just about the words we’ve covered. Terms like “chorreo” (meaning a scolding or reprimand), “microplástico” (microplastic), and even playful entries like “techno” (a music genre) have also been added. These words span a wide range of topics, from environmental issues to pop culture, showcasing the dynamic and inclusive nature of the Spanish language.

A Living Language

Language is alive and constantly changing to reflect the world around us. The RAE’s role is to document these changes and provide a framework for how Spanish is spoken and written. Some additions may spark debate—is “espóiler” necessary when we could say “descriptor” or “arruinar”? Does including anglicisms dilute the purity of the language? But ultimately, these changes represent how people use Spanish today.

What do you think of these new additions? Do they feel like natural evolutions, or do you think some are unnecessary? Regardless of where you stand, one thing is clear: language belongs to its speakers, and together, we shape how it grows and evolves.

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History of Spanish language

Inclusive Language in Ancient Spanish

The debate about inclusive language in contemporary Spanish has sparked numerous discussions about the visibility of women and other groups in discourse. However, it is worth asking whether this phenomenon is truly a modern innovation or if, on the contrary, there are historical precedents in the use of ancient Spanish that reflect concerns for linguistic inclusion.

The Generic Masculine and Its Evolution

Traditionally, Spanish has used the masculine plural as a generic form to refer to mixed groups or when gender is unknown. This convention, based on the principle of linguistic economy, has been criticised for its potential to render women and other gender identities invisible. However, recent studies suggest that the concern for more equitable representation in language is not exclusive to our time.

Sor Juana de la Cruz: A Pioneer in Inclusive Language

A remarkable example is Sor Juana de la Cruz (1481–1534), a Franciscan tertiary from the 16th century. According to Patricia Fernández Martín’s article “Hacia una historia del lenguaje inclusivo en español: el caso de sor Juana de la Cruz (1481-1534)” (Towards a History of Inclusive Language in Spanish: The Case of Sor Juana de la Cruz), Sor Juana employed strategies that we would now identify as inclusive language in her sermons. To avoid the ambiguity of the generic masculine, she used expressions like “hermanos y hermanas” (brothers and sisters) or collective terms that included both genders. This deliberate choice ensured her message reached the entire congregation without excluding women.

Evidence of Inclusion in Other Ancient Texts

Beyond Sor Juana, there are other indications of inclusive language use in earlier times. For instance, in Miguel de Cervantes’ La Gitanilla, the expression “los gitanos y gitanas” (the Gypsy men and women) appears, demonstrating an intention to name both genders explicitly. Such constructions suggest that although the generic masculine was predominant, some authors opted for more inclusive forms when they considered it necessary to emphasise the presence of women in specific contexts.

The Debate in Historical Grammar

The discussion about gender in language is not new. In the 17th century, the French grammarian Vaugelas stated that “the masculine form has preeminence over the feminine because it is more noble.” This perspective cemented the use of the masculine as the generic and reflected an ideology that subordinated women through language. However, before this normative imposition, there were tendencies to feminise Spanish. An example is the transition from “la infante de Castilla” (the princess of Castile) to “la infanta” in the 16th century.

Although the debate on inclusive language has gained traction recently, it is evident that concerns about equitable representation in language have historical roots in ancient Spanish. Figures like Sor Juana de la Cruz and Miguel de Cervantes already used strategies to make both genders visible in their writings, demonstrating that the pursuit of linguistic inclusion is a constant evolution of our language. Recognising these precedents allows us to understand that language is dynamic and that today’s discussions are part of a continuous historical process toward more inclusive and representative communication for all of society.

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Culture around Spanish language

The Tradition of Celebrating “Feliz Santo” in Spanish-Speaking Countries

In many Spanish-speaking countries, wishing someone “Feliz Santo” (Happy Saint’s Day) is a cherished cultural practice deeply rooted in Catholicism and community spirit. While not as universally observed as birthdays, celebrating one’s onomástica (name day) holds special significance in regions where religious traditions and familial bonds are central to daily life.

What is a Name Day?

A name day corresponds to the feast day of a saint after whom a person is named. For example, María might celebrate the Feast of the Virgin Mary, or Juan could celebrate on the day dedicated to Saint John. Unlike birthdays, which are unique to each individual, name days link personal identity to a broader religious and cultural context.

How is it Celebrated?

The customs of celebrating a name day vary by country and family, but common elements include:

  • Greetings and well-wishes: Friends and family offer the simple yet heartfelt phrase “Feliz Santo” to mark the occasion. In some places, it’s customary to extend warm wishes even to acquaintances.
  • Special meals and gatherings: In certain families, name days are occasions for intimate meals or small celebrations, similar to a birthday but with a more spiritual undertone.
  • Religious observance: Devout individuals may attend Mass or pray in honour of their namesake saint, reflecting gratitude and seeking guidance.

Where is it Most Popular?

While celebrating name days is widespread in Spain, its significance varies across Latin America. In Spain, it is common to hear “Feliz Santo” among family members, coworkers, and even neighbours. However, the tradition is less prominent in countries like Mexico and Argentina, often overshadowed by other festivities.

Cultural Significance

The tradition of name days underscores the interplay between personal identity and communal values in Hispanic cultures. Celebrating la onomástica is about honouring an individual and recognising the shared heritage of saints and religious figures who have shaped cultural narratives.

Moreover, name days foster community spirit. Whether in a small village or a bustling city, the exchange of well-wishes strengthens social bonds and reflects the warmth and generosity characteristic of Spanish-speaking cultures.

Modern Adaptations

While younger generations may not observe name days as fervently as older ones, the tradition persists, especially in rural areas or devout families. Social media has also revived the practice, making it easier to send virtual “Feliz Santo” messages.

Ultimately, celebrating name days in the Hispanic world highlights the enduring importance of family, faith, and community in everyday life. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to honour the heritage and connect with loved ones.

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IA and iScribo The language today

Chatbots and Text Generators in Spanish: Applications, Potential, and Challenges

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised how we interact with technology in the digital age. One of its most prominent developments is the rise of chatbots and text generators, tools that have transformed how businesses, educators, and individuals create and process information. Regarding Spanish, these models reveal unique challenges and opportunities highlighting the language’s diversity and complexity.

Applications of Spanish Text Generators

Chatbots and text generators in Spanish are being utilised across a wide range of sectors:

  1. Customer service: Companies worldwide use Spanish-speaking chatbots to interact with clients in real-time. These virtual assistants resolve queries, process orders, and provide technical support 24/7, enhancing customer experience while reducing operational costs.
  2. Education and learning: Text generators are invaluable for creating personalised learning materials. They can answer questions, explain concepts, and even help students practice their writing skills in Spanish.
  3. Marketing and content creation: With these tools, crafting advertisements, social media posts, or blogs in Spanish has become much more efficient. Businesses can maintain an active online presence without spending hours writing and editing.
  4. Translation and localisation: While not direct translators, text generators can help adapt content to fit the linguistic and cultural nuances of Spanish-speaking regions.
  5. Healthcare and legal assistance: Specialized chatbots provide reliable information and assist with initial queries in understandable language, though their precision and sensitivity can be limited.

Limitations and Challenges of Spanish-Language Models

Despite their versatility, Spanish text generators face several significant challenges:

  1. Coherence and context: Spanish, with its complex grammar and regional variations, can pose problems for AI models. Sentences may lack coherence or fail to align with specific contexts. For instance, terms like ordenador and computadora vary by country, and improper usage can cause confusion or seem unnatural.
  2. Cultural nuances and local expressions: Chatbots often struggle to reflect the culture, idioms, and phrases unique to a specific region. A response that works perfectly in Mexico might not resonate in Argentina or Spain, emphasising the need for training models with diverse and representative data.
  3. Semantic ambiguity: Spanish is rich in polysemous words—terms with multiple meanings depending on context. AI models sometimes misinterpret these nuances, leading to inaccurate or unhelpful responses.
  4. Lack of continuous updates: Many models rely on static datasets and may not keep pace with linguistic trends or emerging terms, limiting their ability to adapt to new language uses.
  5. Ethics and misinformation: Text generators can inadvertently spread errors, outdated information, or biases in their training data. This issue becomes critical when users assume the output is always correct.

Overcoming Challenges: Toward Inclusivity

Developers of Spanish-language AI models are implementing strategies to address these challenges:

  • Training with diverse datasets: Including texts from multiple Spanish-speaking regions and contexts helps create more culturally and linguistically competent models.
  • Human oversight: Incorporating human reviewers to adjust and refine model outputs significantly improves their accuracy and relevance.
  • Contextual adaptation: Designing chatbots tailored to specific industries or regions can provide more valuable and natural interactions.
  • Regular updates: It is essential to ensure that models are continuously updated to incorporate new terms and reflect the language’s evolving nature.

An Ally, Not a Replacement

While chatbots and text generators can streamline processes and boost productivity, they do not replace human creativity, critical thinking, or cultural understanding. Instead, they work best as complementary tools that enhance human capabilities.

For instance, a writer might use a text generator to brainstorm ideas or draft content, but the final review—requiring sensitivity to tone, style, and purpose—remains a human responsibility.

The Impact of Spanish on Global AI

The growth of Spanish-language chatbots and text generators reflects the increasing recognition of Spanish as a global force. As companies expand into Spanish-speaking markets, the demand for AI models capable of producing high-quality content in Spanish continues to rise.

This development benefits businesses and Spanish speakers, who gain access to tools tailored to their linguistic and cultural needs.

Spanish-language chatbots and text generators have unlocked new commerce, education, and digital communication possibilities. However, their limitations—particularly in coherence and cultural adaptation—highlight the importance of developing more inclusive and precise models.

Spanish is a complex language rich in nuances and diversity, and advancements in AI must reflect this richness to maximise its positive impact. For now, these models remind us how technology can enhance our lives—provided we approach its use with a critical and human-centred perspective.

As the demand for Spanish continues to grow globally, AI tools will play an increasingly vital role in breaking down language barriers, fostering connections, and opening up new opportunities in the interconnected world of tomorrow.

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The language today

Spanish in Business: The Language of Today and the Future

Spanish, with over 500 million native speakers and official status in 21 countries, has evolved from being a cultural communication tool to a key asset in international business. In an increasingly globalised world where opportunities transcend borders, speaking Spanish can mean the difference between closing a successful deal or falling behind the competition.

A Growing Market

With countries like Mexico, Spain, and Colombia establishing themselves as regional economic powerhouses, Spanish is the second most spoken language globally by native speakers and the third most used language on the Internet, surpassed only by English and Chinese. This growth highlights not only its cultural relevance but also its commercial potential.

For example, with its continually expanding market, Latin America represents an attractive destination for foreign investment. Sectors such as technology, agribusiness, renewable energy, and e-commerce are booming, and knowing the local language facilitates transactions and builds trust with business partners.

Trust is Key in the Business World

Speaking a client’s or partner’s language enables smoother communication and demonstrates respect for their culture and values. This gesture can be decisive in Spanish-speaking countries, where personal relationships are often as meaningful as professional ones.

Moreover, many technical and financial terms in Spanish have unique nuances that don’t always translate directly into English or other languages. Understanding these linguistic subtleties helps prevent misunderstandings and costly errors. For instance, terms like factura (invoice), nómina (payroll), or responsabilidad limitada (limited liability) carry specific meanings within legal and accounting contexts that vary from one country to another.

A Language for Digital Business

The digital revolution has also placed Spanish at the global economy’s centre. With millions of users consuming content online, businesses have begun investing in Spanish-language marketing and advertising strategies. From social media to e-commerce, having a presence in Spanish can open doors to untapped markets.

Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have enormous Spanish-speaking audiences, making Spanish an indispensable tool for any company aiming to expand its reach. Furthermore, in the digital economy, localising products and services in Spanish is no longer just an option—it’s a necessity.

Teaching Spanish as a Corporate Investment

Many international companies are incorporating Spanish language training into their internal development programs. Sales teams, executives, and managers are learning the language to improve their negotiation skills and expand their professional networks.

This investment benefits the company and its employees, who become more competitive in a globalised job market. Learning Spanish opens doors and helps professionals better understand local cultures, enabling them to design more effective and culturally appropriate strategies.

The Future of Spanish in Business

All signs point to Spanish playing an increasingly important role in business. Estimates suggest that by 2060, the United States will be the second-largest Spanish-speaking country in the world, emphasising the language’s importance in Latin America and emerging markets like the U.S.

Additionally, the growing interconnection between Asia and Latin America is positioning Spanish as a mediating language in transactions previously conducted exclusively in English. Asian companies seeking to establish themselves in the region are turning to bilingual professionals fluent in English and Spanish, recognising the language’s significance for international trade.

Beyond Words: A Language, a Culture

Speaking Spanish in business is not just about mastering technical vocabulary or knowing key phrases; it also involves understanding the cultural nuances of each country. For instance, in Mexico, using usted is essential to maintaining a respectful tone, while in Argentina, a more informal approach can foster greater closeness.

Meeting schedules, negotiation styles, and expectations of courtesy can also vary significantly. Mastering the language, therefore, is a way to adapt and thrive in a diverse environment.

The Power of Spanish in the Business World

Spanish is not just a language but a gateway to a vibrant, culturally rich market full of opportunities. In a world where global connections are essential, speaking Spanish is a competitive advantage that builds bridges, fosters trust, and opens new frontiers.

From traditional commerce to digital marketing and Latin America to Asia, Spanish is solidifying its position as the language of business today and in the future. So, if you’re considering learning it, don’t hesitate: investing in Spanish is investing in success.

Remember, whether you’re entering new markets or strengthening existing ones, Spanish is more than just a tool—it’s a key to unlocking global potential.

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History of Spanish language

Did You Know That Medieval Spanish Was More Abbreviated Than Modern Spanish?

Medieval Spanish, that fascinating phase of our language between the 13th and 15th centuries, left us with not only curious words and poetic constructions but also an incredible array of abbreviations that would put modern texting shortcuts to shame. But why was abbreviation so prevalent back then?

The Economy of Parchment and Time

Writing was neither easy nor cheap in the Middle Ages. Books were copied by hand, and parchment, the material used for writing, was a precious resource. To save space and time, medieval scribes developed an elaborate system of abbreviations. Every inch of parchment was valuable, and abbreviations were the perfect solution for maximising its use.

For instance, common words like “Christ” were represented by a simple “X” (derived from the Greek letter chi), and endings like -us or -um were reduced to a single wavy line above the word. These marks, known as “suspension” or “contraction” abbreviations, were so prevalent that reading medieval texts without a guide was nearly impossible for the untrained eye.

The Art of Abbreviation

Abbreviations weren’t just practical—they reflected the scribes’ creativity and ingenuity. Each school or scriptorium developed its variations, making abbreviations almost like a language within a language. Some scribes even created systems so intricate they resembled secret codes.

For example, words like “que” (that) and “quien” (who) were reduced to a simple “q” with additional marks, and entire phrases such as “dijo que” (he/she said that) could be compressed into a single symbol. This system saved space and added an air of sophistication to the texts.

What Remains of These Abbreviations Today?

While many medieval abbreviations vanished with the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, some survived and are still in use today. For instance, abbreviations like “etc.” for “et cetera” and “Mr.” for “Mister” are direct descendants of these medieval practices. These small relics remind us that while modern communication is filled with emojis and acronyms, the need to abbreviate is as old as language.

So, the next time you type “LOL” or “BTW” in a message, remember that you’re continuing a tradition that began centuries ago. Brevity has always been the soul of wit—even in medieval Spanish!

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Culture around Spanish language

New Year in Spain and Latin America: Grapes, Suitcases and a World of Traditions

…3, 2, 1, Happy New Year! In the Spanish-speaking world, the New Year is a festival of customs, rituals and superstitions that reveal the region’s cultural diversity. From Spanish grapes to suitcase rides in Latin America, the transition to January 1 is full of joy and touches of ingenuity. Each unique and charming tradition shows that the festive spirit knows no borders.

Spanish grapes: a classic that unites everyone

Seeing off the year without the famous twelve grapes is unthinkable in Spain. When the clock strikes midnight, millions of Spaniards gather grapes in hand at the Puerta del Sol in Madrid or in front of the television, ready to accompany each chime with a bite. This ritual, born at the end of the 19th century, symbolises good luck for each month of the coming year.

But beware, it is not as simple as it seems: you have to keep up with the clock, and between the nerves and the laughter, some end up with stuck or incomplete grapes. It is part of the charm! Added to this is the toast with cava and sometimes with a gold ring in the glass to ensure prosperity and fortune.

Many New Year’s traditions in Latin America are linked to desires for adventure and exploration. In Venezuela, Colombia and other countries, those who dream of travelling next year take a suitcase and go for a walk around the block at midnight. Some, like in Chile, even run to secure an international itinerary. This cute ritual is fun and reinforces the idea that dreams can come true if you push them. That’s why it’s not unusual to be with a family hugging each other and see someone running with an empty suitcase in the middle of the night.

The lucky colour

Red or yellow underwear? The answer varies by country, but in the region, it is believed that the colour of your underwear influences what you will attract in the new year. In Spain and Mexico, red is for love; in Argentina, Chile, and Colombia, yellow symbolises prosperity. Some people even wear new underwear as a sign of renewal, ensuring that everything they wear that night is an omen of positive things.

The Old Year: Fire to Close Cycles

In Ecuador and Colombia, one of the most symbolic traditions is the burning of the “Old Year.” This doll, made with old clothes and stuffed with paper or sawdust, represents the problematic or harmful moments of the year that are ending. The doll is set on fire at midnight, leaving the bad behind and making room for new opportunities.

In some cases, the “Old Year” includes masks representing public figures or controversial characters during the year. It is a mix of humour, catharsis, and ritual, perfect for starting over.

Flavours of a New Beginning

There is no party without food, and New Year is no exception. In Mexico, romeritos and cod are the stars; in Venezuela, ham and hallacas mark the festive table; and in Argentina and southern Chile, barbecue is the absolute king.

In Peru, in addition to the traditional turkey, panettone and hot chocolate are a must, while in Puerto Rico, roasting suckling pig and coquito (a delicious coconut liqueur) gives the final touch to the celebration. Food is a delight and a way to share and strengthen family and friendship ties.

A colourful sky

Nothing is more representative of a massive celebration than fireworks, and in countries like Guatemala and El Salvador, the sky is filled with lights and explosions of colour at midnight. In Chile and Argentina, families often gather in gardens or patios to enjoy the fireworks and the warm summer air. It’s a spectacular way to mark the beginning of a new chapter.

Superstitions and small magical gestures

Throughout the region, superstitions and rituals seek to attract good luck, health and love. In Mexico, some sweep the house outwards to eliminate bad energies. Meanwhile, baking bread in the shape of stairs in Bolivia promises promotions and prosperity.

No matter how small, every gesture is loaded with hope and faith that the new year will be better.

A mosaic of shared hopes

From grapes in Spain to suitcases in America, the New Year in the Hispanic world is a unique and diverse celebration with a common denominator: the desire to start over with joy, hope and unity.

Whether you burn a doll in Colombia or run with a suitcase in Chile, the important thing is to remember that every tradition, no matter how simple or extravagant it may seem, is a way of expressing confidence in a bright future. So, happy New Year! May 2025 be full of adventures, love and lots of toasts.

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Culture around Spanish language

Christmas in Latin America: between carols, posadas and Santa Claus

Christmas in Latin America is a mosaic of traditions, flavours, and celebrations that vary as much as the Spanish accents in the region. Although they all share the festive spirit, each country gives a unique touch to this magical season. From the colourful Mexican posadas to the Christmas “asados” in Argentina, Christmas in this corner of the world is an unforgettable experience full of diversity and human warmth.

Santa Claus, Father Christmas or Pascuero?

One of the great Christmas dilemmas in Latin America is what we call the chubby character who hands out presents. In Mexico, Central America and much of the Caribbean, it is more common to hear “Santa Claus”, adopted directly from the American model. However, in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, the “Santa Claus” figure predominates, influenced by European traditions.

In Chile, the beloved “Viejito Pascuero” steals the show. This name, a mix of the traditional and the tender, reflects the affection with which Chileans have integrated him into their culture. Although the character is essentially the same, how he is named shows how cultures reinterpret global symbols to make them their own.

The road to Bethlehem: posadas and novenas

In Mexico and Guatemala, posadas are an essential ritual in the days before Christmas. These recreations of Mary and Joseph’s pilgrimage to Bethlehem combine songs, prayers, and piñatas filled with candy. The hosts open their doors, symbolising the spirit of hospitality that defines Christmas.

Christmas novenas take a more spiritual approach in Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. For nine days, families gather to pray, sing Christmas carols and share traditional sweets. At these gatherings, there is no shortage of buñuelos, natillas or hallacas, demonstrating that faith and food always go hand in hand in Latin America.

Christmas tables: a diverse feast

If one thing unites the region, it is food, but each country has its interpretation of a Christmas dinner. In Argentina, Uruguay and southern Chile, the barbecue is the star of the evening, while in Peru, turkey accompanied by Russian salad and panettone is a must.

In Venezuela, hallacas (stuffed tamale) are the table’s centrepiece, accompanied by pork and ham bread. In Mexico, the menu may include cod a la vizcaína, romeritos and tamales. At the same time, in Puerto Rico, the star is roasted suckling pig, accompanied by rice with pigeon peas and coquito, a coconut liqueur-like punch.

Fireworks and outdoor traditions

In much of Latin America, Christmas is celebrated with warm temperatures, which invite people to take the festivities outdoors. Countries like Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil are expected to gather in patios and gardens to enjoy food under the stars.

F fireworks are central in countries like El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala. At midnight on December 24, the skies light up with colourful explosions that mark the beginning of Christmas. In Chile, it is expected to see children playing in the street after midnight with the toys that Santa Claus has given them.

Days of togetherness and family celebration

Although the names and customs vary, the spirit of Christmas in Latin America is universal: it is a time for family, faith, and solidarity. Each tradition, from the most solemn to the most festive, reminds us that Christmas transcends borders. Some give a single gift; others want to surprise with many gifts. There are secret friends, office celebrations, and more austere celebrations.

So, whether you toast with coconut, eggnog or champagne or give gifts from Santa Claus, Father Christmas or Santa Claus, in Latin America, you will always find a unique and memorable way to experience the magic of Christmas. The important thing is to have the company of family or friends on that particular night.

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