What is el gordo

1. What is el gordo?
2. In what country are fireworks used as a distraction from the arrival of Santa Claus?
3. In what country do they roller skate to church on Christmas?
4. Which traditions take place on December 7th-8th? Circle all that apply.
   La Lotería La Quema del Diablo Las Posadas El Día de las Velitas La Purísima
5. What do they use as decoration in the Dominican Republic? Name it and describe the decoration:
6. What is the “sale of saints”? Where does it take place?
7. Who is “El Viejito Pascuero”?

The Correct Answer and Explanation is :

1. What is El Gordo?
   El Gordo is the name of Spain’s famous Christmas lottery, officially called “Lotería de Navidad.” It is one of the oldest and largest lotteries in the world, and the drawing occurs every December 22. El Gordo has a reputation for having large prizes, with many people in Spain purchasing tickets in the hope of winning a share of the enormous jackpot. The event is celebrated nationwide and is a key part of the Spanish Christmas tradition.
2. In what country are fireworks used as a distraction from the arrival of Santa Claus?
   In Mexico, fireworks are often used to distract children from the arrival of Santa Claus (or “Papá Noel”) during Christmas Eve celebrations. This tradition is part of the vibrant and lively festivities that accompany the holiday season in Mexico.
3. In what country do they roller skate to church on Christmas?
   In Venezuela, it is a popular Christmas tradition for people, especially in the capital city of Caracas, to roller skate to church on Christmas Eve. This fun and unique practice is part of the Christmas celebrations in Venezuela, with families heading to Mass in the evening, often traveling on roller skates as a festive activity.
4. Which traditions take place on December 7th-8th? Circle all that apply.

• La Lotería
• La Quema del Diablo
• Las Posadas
• El Día de las Velitas
• La Purísima On December 7th-8th, the following traditions take place:
• La Quema del Diablo: This tradition is celebrated in Guatemala, where people burn effigies of the devil to symbolize the cleansing of evil spirits before Christmas.
• Las Posadas: This is a tradition observed in many Latin American countries, including Mexico, where reenactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging are carried out through processions.
• El Día de las Velitas: In Colombia, December 7th marks the start of Christmas celebrations with the “Day of the Little Candles,” where people light candles and lanterns in their homes and streets to celebrate the Immaculate Conception.
• La Purísima: Celebrated mainly in Nicaragua and other Central American countries, La Purísima is a celebration of the Virgin Mary’s purity and is usually marked by processions, prayers, and feasts.

1. What do they use as decoration in the Dominican Republic? Name it and describe the decoration:
   In the Dominican Republic, “agrass” or “grass mats” are commonly used as decorations during Christmas. These mats are often woven from palm leaves and serve as a traditional decoration for the season. They are typically placed on floors or used as backdrops in homes to celebrate the holiday. Some homes may also use brightly colored lights, nativity scenes, and paper lanterns (known as “faroles”) for additional decoration.
2. What is the “sale of saints”? Where does it take place?
   The “sale of saints” refers to a traditional Christmas market in Mexico, where various religious figurines, particularly saints and nativity scene figures (including the baby Jesus), are sold. These figurines are often crafted from materials like clay, wood, or ceramic and are displayed and sold in markets during the Christmas season, especially in cities like Mexico City. The sale of saints is part of the cultural and religious traditions surrounding the Christmas holiday in Mexico.
3. Who is “El Viejito Pascuero”?
   “El Viejito Pascuero” is the Chilean version of Santa Claus. In Chile, he is a jolly old man who delivers gifts to children on Christmas Eve. His name, which translates to “Little Old Man Christmas,” is a more affectionate and familial title, representing the spirit of Christmas with warmth and generosity. The tradition of El Viejito Pascuero is deeply ingrained in Chilean Christmas customs, influenced by European traditions of Santa Claus but with a more local twist. He is said to travel through the countryside and cities on Christmas Eve, arriving at homes to leave presents for children. Chilean children often place their shoes under the Christmas tree or hang stockings, and they eagerly await his visit. Interestingly, El Viejito Pascuero is often depicted differently in various regions of Chile. While the North may see him with a more traditional Santa Claus appearance (a red suit, white beard, and cheerful face), in rural areas, he may wear a simpler outfit, often more in line with Chilean traditional clothing. Christmas in Chile occurs during summer, so El Viejito Pascuero’s sleigh is often imagined to be pulled by reindeer in some interpretations but could also be depicted with more practical, warm-weather transportation, like a cart or even a simple sack of gifts. The joy of the season is found in family gatherings, outdoor activities, and the festive atmosphere, making El Viejito Pascuero an integral part of this holiday tradition.