Moving to Portugal has been an incredible journey for our family, and celebrating Christmas here has added a whole new layer of magic to the holiday season. Portugal’s rich traditions, warm hospitality, and festive spirit make it an unforgettable place to experience Christmas. Whether you’re a fellow expat or a visitor, let’s explore the unique traditions and must-do activities that make a Portuguese Christmas so special.

Unique Family Traditions as Expats

Living in Portugal has allowed us to merge our American holiday traditions with Portuguese customs, creating new and meaningful ways to celebrate the season. Here are some special traditions we’ve embraced as a family:

Stocking Stuffers on Christmas Eve: We love the fun tradition of exchanging stocking stuffers on Christmas Eve. Each family member gets a budget of €10 and buys for three people. In the U.S., this was often a quick trip to Walgreens, but in Portugal, we’ve gotten creative with Christmas markets and local grocery stores.  My favorite is Continente, as they are close to a Super Target.  However, a Pingo Doce can also work or even a good market!  For more info on where to shop when in Portugal, read here!

The Plastic Wrap Game: A family favorite! We wrap small treats and prizes in layers of plastic wrap, and the challenge is to unwrap them while wearing oven mitts. It’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.  The Portuguese have never seen anything like it, but they have a great time.  I buy the items inside the ball at the larger Chinese Stores (think dollar store meets Walmart).

Elf on the Shelf: The kids look forward to visits from their Elf on the Shelf, who brings surprises and sometimes a little mischief during the holiday season.   I did bring these guys from the US, but they can be international!

Dressing as Santa and Mrs. Claus: Every year, we dress up as Santa and Mrs. Claus to visit our church and local community. It’s a heartwarming way to spread Christmas cheer and connect with others during this festive time.

White Elephant Gift Exchanges and Ugly Sweater Parties:  We’ve introduced both of these, and after a few years, they are finally taking hold.  One of our couple friends told me earlier in the year they found an ugly Christmas sweater.  We’ve also got some of the Portuguese warming to “stealing” white elephant gifts (which here we just give good gifts, no jokes!).  It’s a stretch from their customs, but it’s been super fun to watch.

Community Activities: From hosting holiday events to participating in local traditions, getting involved in the community has made Christmas in Portugal even more special.

Portuguese Christmas Traditions

Midnight Mass (Missa do Galo)

One of the most cherished traditions in Portugal is attending Midnight Mass, or “Missa do Galo,” on Christmas Eve. This special service often features candlelight processions, carols, and heartfelt community gatherings.

Family Tip: Arrive early to secure seating, as churches can get quite crowded. Many local churches also offer children’s activities or nativity plays beforehand.

The Presépio (Nativity Scene)

Portugal takes its nativity scenes seriously, with elaborate displays ranging from simple home setups to grand exhibitions in town squares. Some even include moving parts and running water to depict a vibrant village scene.

Traditionally, items are gathered for a few weeks from outside to include local rocks, leaves, etc making up the nativities.  I love to view these at the malls, as they can get very elaborate with running water and more.  Our kids even participate in making them at school.

Don’t Miss: The stunning nativity display in Óbidos during the Vila Natal celebration.

Consoada Dinner

Christmas Eve dinner, known as “Consoada,” is a time for families to come together over a traditional meal. Salted cod (bacalhau) served with boiled potatoes and cabbage is the star of the show, followed by a table overflowing with desserts like Bolo Rei (King Cake), rabanadas (Portuguese French toast), and filhoses (fried dough).

To be fair, some of these dishes are our favorite, so we still eat a lot of our own traditional dishes on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!  However, all are worth trying.

Pro Tip: Embrace the tradition of leaving a few extra plates at the table for unexpected guests or the souls of the departed.

Things To Do During Christmas in Portugal

1. Explore Christmas Markets

While I’ve already shared a detailed guide to the best Christmas markets in Portugal here, they’re worth another mention! From the enchanting markets in Lisbon to the charming stalls in Porto, these markets are perfect for finding unique gifts and enjoying festive treats.

Family Highlight: The children’s rides and ice skating rinks at Lisbon’s Wonderland Market are a hit with the little ones.

2. Visit Vila Natal in Óbidos

The medieval town of Óbidos transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holidays. Expect twinkling lights, street performers, live music, and plenty of festive cheer.

• Dates: November 28th, 2025 to January 4th, 2026.
• Family Highlight: Don’t miss the snow globe experience or the Christmas train ride through the town.

3. Admire the Giant Christmas Tree in Lisbon

Praça do Comércio in Lisbon hosts a towering Christmas tree that lights up the city. The surrounding area comes alive with street performers, music, and holiday markets.

Family Tip: Visit at dusk for the best photos, and stay for dinner at a nearby restaurant overlooking the Tagus River.

4. Take a Day Trip to Serra da Estrela

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas in Portugal, head to Serra da Estrela, the country’s highest mountain range. It’s one of the few places where you can experience snow during the holidays.

• Family Highlight: Kids will love sledding and visiting the mountain’s resident reindeer.

What To Eat and Drink During the Holidays in Portugal

Traditional Sweets

Portugal’s dessert game is strong, especially during Christmas. Here are some must-try treats:

• Bolo Rei: A colorful, fruit-studded cake with a hidden prize inside.
• Rabanadas: Portuguese-style French toast, often soaked in syrup or wine.
• Filhoses: Crispy fried dough, sometimes dusted with sugar and cinnamon.
• Sonhos: Light, airy doughnuts that feel like eating a dream (hence the name).

Warm Drinks

• Ginjinha: A cherry liqueur served in small chocolate cups for a festive twist.
• Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, often found at Christmas markets.
• Mulled Wine: Infused with local spices for a Portuguese take on this winter classic.

Pro Tip: Many bakeries offer “Bolo Rainha,” a less-sweet alternative to Bolo Rei, made without candied fruit.

Insider Tips for Families

• While Portugal’s winters are mild compared to the US, it can still get chilly in the evenings. Layers are key!
  
• Get involved! Join your neighborhood’s festivities or attend a local nativity play.
  
• Smaller towns like Óbidos and Serra da Estrela can get crowded, especially when it comes to parking. Arrive early or use public transportation when possible.
  
• In Portugal, gifts are traditionally opened after midnight on Christmas Eve, adding an exciting twist to the evening.
  
• Many towns and cities have dazzling light installations. Check your local area for free events.  We have a wonderful “Era Uma Vez” display going on near us right now in Marques do Pombal.  There is an artificial ice skating rink (thin plastic sheeting with a form of skates), stalls and glittering lights set amid a historic palace.

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Celebrating Christmas in Portugal has been an incredible way to embrace new traditions while keeping in touch with our American roots. If you are visiting for the holiday season, enjoy some traditional fare, visit the beach, and cozy up with some chestnuts by a fire!

From the warm glow of nativity scenes to the bustling Christmas markets, the holiday season here is truly magical. Whether you’re exploring with your family, sampling traditional sweets, or soaking in the festive atmosphere, Portugal offers a unique and heartfelt Christmas experience. Wishing you a Feliz Natal and a season filled with joy and discovery!

Merry Christmas,

Leslie