December 28th in Spain: Day of the Holy Innocents
If you are visiting Spain in December or following Spanish media, you may notice that on December 28th strange news stories, surprising announcements, or unexpected jokes suddenly appear. Don’t worry—this is not a mistake or a misunderstanding. You are experiencing Día de los Santos Inocentes, one of Spain’s most curious traditions.
What is celebrated on December 28th?
Día de los Santos Inocentes has its origins in a Christian religious observance that commemorates the biblical episode in which King Herod ordered the killing of children under the age of two in Bethlehem. Over time, however, this solemn meaning evolved in Spain into a popular day of humor and practical jokes.
Today, December 28th is essentially Spain’s version of April Fools’ Day, celebrated on April 1st in many European and English-speaking countries.
“Inocentadas”: jokes with tradition
The jokes played on this day are known as inocentadas. They are usually harmless, light-hearted, and meant to amuse rather than offend. When someone falls for one, it is common to hear the phrase:
“¡Inocente, inocente!”
(“Innocent, innocent!”)
Typical inocentadas include:
- Fake news stories published by media outlets (later revealed as jokes).
- Pranks among friends, family, or colleagues.
- Exaggerated or obviously impossible announcements on social media.
- Traditional tricks, such as sticking a paper figure on someone’s back without them noticing.
The role of the media on December 28th
One aspect that often surprises non-residents is that newspapers, radio stations, and TV channels actively take part in this tradition. They publish believable but false stories designed to trick readers in a playful way.
For this reason, if you read an unusual or shocking headline in Spain on December 28th, it’s always a good idea to check the date before sharing it.
How is it different from other countries?
While many European countries have a day dedicated to jokes, Spain’s December 28th stands out because of:
- Its religious origins, unlike purely popular celebrations elsewhere.
- The widespread participation of the media.
- The use of the word “inocente” as a key part of the tradition.
For those unfamiliar with Spanish customs, it can be confusing at first, but it is an important part of the festive atmosphere during the Christmas season.
Advice for visitors and foreign residents
If you are in Spain on December 28th:
- Be cautious with surprising news.
- Take jokes with a sense of humor.
- Avoid making quick assumptions without verifying information.
Understanding this tradition will help you avoid misunderstandings and enjoy one of the most playful aspects of Spanish culture.
A final note
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