The Spanish New Year's Eve is known as Nochevieja, literally meaning the old Night.

Nochevieja is celebrated similarly the world over, Spain is no different with parties and a carnival like atmosphere everywhere. Traditionally the family would get together during the day to eat the wonderful Spanish gastronomy and plenty of wine or cava.

At the stroke of midnight 12 gongs indicate the approaching New Year and the 'Plaza del Sol' in Madrid is shown on Spanish television for all to see. As the gongs are heard, it is a tradition in Spain to eat a grape for every gong ... 12 grapes in 12 seconds. For those who manage this deceptively difficult task, a prosperous new Year in Spain awaits!

After midnight the celebrations continue with the Spanish locals, especially the younger ones, taking to the streets to party all night, to visit pubs or clubs and to thoroughly enjoy the celebrations.

With the all night parties, New Year's Day (Año Nuevo) in Spain is a calm and quiet day often beginning with hot chocolate and churros (a type of Spanish doughnut) before heading home to eat with the family before finally sleeping off the excesses of the night before.