What is the Tió de Nadal? The Tió de Nadal, popularly known as Caga Tió (Pooping Log), is a wooden log with a painted smiling face, covered with a blanket and a barretina, the traditional Catalan hat. During the weeks leading up to Christmas, families “feed” the Tió with small treats, such as fruits and cookies, so that it is “prepared” for the big day. This simple ritual especially delights young children. On Christmas Eve, December 24, amidst songs and gentle hits with a stick, the Tió “poops” gifts for the whole family. The Origin of the "Caga Tió": A Deeply Rooted Rural Tradition The Caga Tió tradition has pre-Christian roots and is linked to Catalonia’s deep rural connection. In ancient times, the Tió symbolized the spirit of the forest, and the act of caring for it and “feeding” it symbolized a request for a good winter season. Later, homes with hearth fires would burn it to celebrate the winter solstice. The Tió represented the spirit of the forest and was considered a symbol of protection and fertility. It was struck with a stick to produce warmth and light when burned, and it was also said to “drive away evil spirits” from homes. The smoke it produced was believed to be a way to connect with family ancestors. Over time, and with the influence of Christianity, the Caga Tió became a children’s celebration and has turned into an essential Christmas symbol that connects children with the magic of Catalan stories and traditions. Preparations for the Tió de Nadal at Home To fully enjoy this tradition, follow these simple steps to prepare the Caga Tió at home: Choose an appropriate log: You can go to the forest to find a log and decorate it with a friendly face, or buy a pre-decorated Caga Tió. Place it in a special corner of the home: Find a spot where children can see it often and give it food each night, increasing their excitement as the big day approaches. Feed it daily: Every night, give it a small ration of food, like a tangerine or cookies. This daily routine builds a sense of connection and anticipation up to Christmas Eve. Enjoy the tradition: When the moment comes, everyone grabs a stick and sings the Caga Tió song, tapping it gently to let the magic happen as it “poops” gifts. The Night of the “Caga Tió” The Caga Tió celebration takes place on the night of December 24 or the morning of the 25th, depending on the family. It is placed in the center of the room, fully covered with its blanket, while the children sing the Caga Tió song and gently hit it with a stick. The lyrics vary by region, but all versions retain the fun spirit of the tradition. Finally, when the song is over, the family lifts the blanket to reveal the gifts that the Tió has left for everyone. The gifts are usually small treats or sweets, though each family decides what to hide under the blanket. Songs to Make the Tió "Poop" Songs to “make the Tió poop” are an essential part of this tradition. With joyful and enthusiastic lyrics, children hit the log while singing to ask for gifts. Each region of Catalonia has its own version of the song, but all share a festive tone that fills the home with laughter and excitement. These traditional melodies reinforce the magic of the moment and keep the Christmas spirit alive. Lyrics of the “Caga Tió” Songs One of the most well-known songs is as follows: Caga tió,avellanes i torrons,no caguis arengades,que són massa salades,caga torrons que són més bons.Caga tió,avellanes i torrons,si no vols cagar, et donaré un cop de bastó! (Poop log,hazelnuts and nougat,don’t poop salted fish,they’re too salty,poop nougat that’s much better.Poop log,hazelnuts and nougat,if you don’t want to poop, I’ll hit you with a stick!) There are also other versions sung to make the Tió poop, with variations in melodies during this special ritual: Caga tió, tió de Nadal;posarem el porc en sal,la gallina a la pasterai el poll a dalt del pi.Toca, toca Valentí.Passen bous i vaques,gallines amb sabatesi galls amb sabatons.Correu, correu minyons,que la teta fa torrons,el vicari els ha tastat,diu que són un poc salats.Ai el brut, ai el porc,ai el cara, cara, cara,ai el brut, ai el porc,ai el cara de pebrot. (Poop log, Christmas log;we’ll put the pig in salt,the hen in the pantry,and the chicken on top of the pine tree.Knock, knock, Valentí.Oxen and cows are passing,hens in shoesand roosters in slippers.Run, run, children,the udder is making nougat,the vicar has tasted it,he says it’s a little salty.Oh, you dirty one, oh, you pig,oh, you face, face, face,oh, you dirty one, oh, you pig,oh, you pepper-face.) Curiosities about the Catalan Tió de Nadal Here are some details and customs to learn even more about the Tió: A unique log for each home: Although the Tió is popular in many Catalan homes, each family decorates it to their liking. Some are small and simple, while others have more elaborate decorations. Some families even pass it down from generation to generation. The song varies by region: The Caga Tió song has regional variations, and even family-specific versions, though the essence always remains the same. Evolution of the gifts: Originally, the Caga Tió “pooped” very simple gifts, such as sweets, nuts, or a small handmade toy. Over time, the gifts have evolved, and nowadays it might even “poop” larger presents. The Tió’s Lord’s Prayer: In many homes, children would pray the Lord’s Prayer before or during the ritual of making the Tió poop. This tradition has faded in many families as they became more secular. Going “hunting” for the Tió in the forest: In some parts of Catalonia, the Tió is hidden in the forest, and children go out to find it, creating a whole adventure at the start of December. How to Enjoy the “Caga Tió” as a Family in Catalonia The Caga Tió isn’t just about making it “poop” gifts; it’s a very special occasion to share as a family. During the weeks leading up to Christmas, children are tasked with feeding the Tió and caring for it with patience, and through this tradition, children learn values like patience and generosity while enjoying Christmas in a magical and authentic way. Fairs and Festivals to Celebrate the Tió de Nadal with Family In Catalonia, the Tió de Nadal extends beyond homes, with popular festivals and Christmas fairs where people of all ages can enjoy this tradition. In Sant Vicenç de Castellet, the Festa del Tió is held on the Sunday before Christmas, where hundreds of children can make a giant log poop and enjoy a Christmas fair with workshops, carols, and children’s activities. The Fira del Tió d'Arbúcies, held since 2013, offers a showcase of Christmas traditions with artisanal products, family activities, workshops, and performances of “Els Pastorets,” becoming a must-visit event to enjoy the Christmas spirit. The Tió de Nadal is a tradition full of symbolism and affection that unites generations and makes every Christmas in Catalonia special!