Christmas is magical - children can tell you that - and it's the Christmas traditions that add sparkle to December, which is marked by the countdown of Santas' arrival. Portuguese traditions are truly unique and it's in the Algarve's charm that we find many of them; if you're thinking of a different kind of Christmas, head to the Algarve where the mild winter temperatures and 300 days of sunshine make this a unique destination for a magical getaway.

Grab a cup of hot chocolate, sit by the fire and take us through some of the Portuguese Christmas customs:

Consoada - Christmas Eve: In Portugal, 24 December has a special meaning because it's a day when families gather around the table for a sumptuous meal - called 'Consoada' - and wait until 00:00 to open presents. The tables are filled with traditional dishes such as cod, octopus, kid, turkey, filo pastry, dreams, breadcrumbs and many others that vary from region to region and symbolise the union and sharing between families.

Bolo-Rei (King's Cake): a festive cake in the shape of a crown that is part of the Portuguese tradition and is typically eaten during the Christmas and Three Kings' Days. Its name alludes to the three wise men. It consists of dough, eggs, sultanas, dried fruit and candied fruit. In the Algarve, you can enjoy the Bolo-Rei Gigante on 6 January in Loulé.

Nativity scenes: Portuguese homes and towns come alive with nativity scenes. These displays depict the birth of Jesus, often incorporating local elements that add a touch of authenticity to the story. One of the largest nativity scenes in the Algarve is located in Vila Real de Santo António and will be on display until 7 January.

Singing the Kings: to sing the Kings is to be part of an exhibition of musical groups that sing typical songs in the streets of the towns. You can watch this tradition, for example, in Tavira on 6 January at the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

While you're exploring Christmas traditions, add to your stops a visit to the Algarve's main shopping destination, Designer Outlet Algarve, where you'll find more than 70 brands with discounts of up to -70%.  If you're looking for the ultimate Christmas present, here you have our suggestions. 

Let the countdown begin for two of the most magical days of the year!