Christmas in Puerto Rico is a festive and joyful occasion. The holiday season officially begins on December 16 with the start of the nine-day celebration known as the Novena de Aguinaldos, or the "Nine Nights of Carols." During this time, families gather together to sing traditional Christmas songs known as aguinaldos and to participate in religious services.

One of the most important traditions during the holiday season in Puerto Rico is the “parranda,” a lively musical celebration where friends and family members go from house to house singing and playing instruments. The parranda often continues into the early hours of the morning, and is a highlight of the holiday season for many Puerto Ricans.

Another important tradition is the making of the Puerto Rican pastel, a savory meat-filled pastry that is a staple of the Christmas dinner table. The pastel is typically made with a variety of meats, such as pork, chicken, and beef, along with olives, capers, and raisins. It is then wrapped in a plantain or yuca dough and baked until golden brown.

On Christmas Eve, many families attend the Misa de Gallo, or the "Rooster's Mass," which is a midnight mass held in churches across the island. This mass is named after the rooster's crow, which is believed to have awakened the shepherds on the night of Jesus' birth.

After attending mass, families return home to enjoy a hearty Christmas dinner, which often includes the Puerto Rican pastel as well as other traditional dishes like lechón (roasted pork), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), and coquito (a coconut-based holiday drink).

Overall, Christmas in Puerto Rico is a time for celebration and joy, as friends and family come together to enjoy the traditions and festivities of the season. And if you think Christmas in Puerto Rico ends on December 25th, you would be mistaken. Traditionally it runs until the end of the San Sebastian festival in late January.