One of the most deeply rooted Christmas customs in Andorra is that of the Tió de Nadal (Christmas Log), a tradition of rural origin linked to the winter solstice, fertility and nature, symbolised in a simple wooden log.

It all starts around the Immaculate Conception, when each family chooses their Christmas Log and sets it up in a corner of the house, well covered with a blanket. Over the course of the following days, the children feed him until the big moment arrives: Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, when they make him 'poop' presents.

While the little ones sing carols in another room, away from the Christmas Log, everything is prepared. When they are called back in, they strike the log with a stick and sing the popular 'Tió, tió, caga tió...' tune and, when the blanket is lifted, they discover the surprises it has left for them. When coal begins to appear, it is a sign that the Christmas Log has nothing more to give and the ceremony ends.

This tradition is also brought out into the streets: some parishes install a giant Tió in the square so that everyone can enjoy it. And if you want to learn all its secrets, in the Living Forest of Ordino you will discover the story of the real Christmas Log in a space full of enchanted trees, magical creatures and lots of surprises.