El caganer; the shitter or crapper in the nativity scene.
Courtesy of Arun Rao
The nativity scene is one of the most ingrained traditions in the Spanish culture. The scene is displayed in churches, homes and department stores.
Catalan Nativity figure: El caganer: the shitter
The caganer is one of the most celebrated and important figures in the nativity scene. Caganer translates to the shitter. A figurine taking a dump. Whatever you might think, it has a profound meaning. It dates back to the XVIII century and it actually symbolized the fertilizing of the land and is a symbol of prosperity and good luck.
The caganer used to be a figure mainly dressed in the traditional catalán attire: white shirt, red beret and black sash. However, the tradition has evolved with the times and now political figurines are being made and have them taking a dump too!
Do you have any crazy holiday traditions to share? Let us know!
A British explanation:
Casa Hispana 
Pingback: New Year’s Eve Colombian style: Good luck traditions! | Casa Hispana
Pingback: Regala experiencias por Navidad, aunque la plata también se aprecia. | Casa Hispana
Pingback: Give away experiences for these Holidays! | Casa Hispana