Experience Puerto Rico’s Holiday Season

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season in Puerto Rico! People often start decorating their homes, making holiday staples like pasteles and coquito, and fully jump into the spirit of the season.

Christmas Eve, known as Nochebuena, is one of the biggest holiday celebrations. Everyone puts on their best outfit, gathers at home, and cooks a magnificent feast. Plates are piled high with succulent pernil, arroz con gandules, pasteles, and potato salad, along with delicious desserts like arroz con dulce, tembleque, and, of course, a glass of coquito.

While some families open gifts at midnight, others wait until Christmas Day. It’s a laid-back day to spend with friends and family, enjoy gifts, and have some delicious leftovers.

Boricuas will never turn down an opportunity to dress up and celebrate! New Year’s Eve is full of food and unique traditions, like jumping into the beach 12 times or eating 12 grapes before the clock strikes midnight to usher in good fortune into the new year.

¡Que viva la tradición! This phrase, meaning may the tradition live on, is emblematic of this celebration. Three Kings Eve is one of the most quintessential Boricua traditions, with food, music, and a trip outside to retrieve grass to feed the Magi’s camels in exchange for gifts.

It’s time to unwrap the gifts that the Magi left! This day is filled with music, tradition, and the halfway point of the holiday celebrations. The Island also comes alive, with various activities across all regions to celebrate with the community.

The party doesn't end after Three Kings Days! While the Octavitas started as a religious celebration, it has become a more secular event that extends the Boricua holiday season a little longer.

Marking the unofficial end of the holiday season, the Fiestas de la Calle de San Sebastián is held in Old San Juan, receiving thousands of attendees. During the day, it’s a great place to watch shows, purchase artwork from local artisans, and savor delicious street food. At night, it becomes a giant party spilling out from local bars and restaurants.