Christmas Day

Christmas Day in Uruguay, celebrated on December 25th, is a festive occasion that blends religious traditions with local customs. While Uruguay is a secular country with a significant portion of the population identifying as non-religious, Christmas is widely observed as a time for family gatherings, feasting, and gift-giving. Unlike many other countries, Christmas in Uruguay is celebrated during the summer, as it falls in the Southern Hemisphere's warm season. This means that many Uruguayans spend the holiday outdoors, enjoying barbecues (asados), picnics, or trips to the beach. Traditional Christmas meals often include roasted meats, salads, and seasonal fruits, accompanied by local wines or clericó, a refreshing fruit and wine punch. Decorations such as Christmas trees, lights, and nativity scenes are common, especially in urban areas like Montevideo. While the religious aspect of Christmas is less emphasized compared to other countries, midnight Mass (Misa de Gallo) is still attended by some. Fireworks and festive music add to the celebratory atmosphere. Overall, Christmas Day in Uruguay is a time for relaxation, togetherness, and enjoying the summer weather with loved ones.