Lorraine Williamson
Every spring, across Spain, a familiar scene unfolds: children in crisp formalwear outside churches, flanked by proud parents and grandparents. These are not weddings, graduations or confirmations. They’re First Communions – a Catholic rite of passage that has become one of Spain’s most significant cultural and social milestones.
But while the tradition remains firmly rooted in religious practice, the cost of celebrating it has risen sharply. In some cases, a child’s First Communion now rivals a small wedding – not just in significance, but also in spending.
What is First Communion and when is it celebrated?
In Spain, most children take their First Communion at the age of 8 or 9. The ceremony marks their first reception of the Eucharist and typically takes place between April and June, with May being the peak season. Each parish sets its own date, but the weekends during these months are filled with ceremonies.
Churches are filled with families dressed for the occasion. Outside, it’s common to see children posing for photographs in white dresses or navy-blue suits. These outfits are more than just tradition – they’re also part of the growing financial commitment.
The rising cost of First Communion in Spain
According to El País (March 2025), average spending on First Communion celebrations has risen by 12% since the pandemic, even though the number of celebrations has dropped by 20%.
Depending on the scale, families now spend between €2,500 and €13,500. The largest outlay is often clothing. Dresses range from €90 to €1,800. Boys’ suits typically cost between €110 and €670.
Another major expense is the celebration itself. A restaurant meal for guests can cost anywhere from €40 to €180 per person. Add in the cost of venue hire, professional photography, video production, party favours, decorations, and entertainment, and the total adds up quickly.
In many cases, planning begins months in advance, with the event taking on the feel of a large-scale family gathering rather than a purely religious service.
Gifts and expectations
Gift-giving is customary. Money is the most popular option, especially among friends and extended family. Cash gifts usually range from €50 to €200. Close relatives may give jewellery, watches, or even tech gadgets such as tablets.
Parents and grandparents often mark the occasion with more expensive or sentimental presents, including gold crosses, bracelets or traditional religious tokens.
Why does it matter so much?
First Communion in Spain goes beyond the Church. It represents a public celebration of the child within their family and community. The ceremony, the clothing, the party and the photos are all ways of marking a key moment in a child’s life – and presenting that moment to others.
In many parts of Spain, it remains one of the most important events in a child’s early years. The entire family often takes part – not just parents and siblings, but extended relatives and close friends. It’s a statement of belonging, identity and continuity.
First Communion in Spain today
For those unfamiliar with Spanish culture, the scale of a First Communion can be surprising. It is both intimate and public. Religious and social. Traditional and modern.
As prices climb, debates continue about the commercialisation of what was once a simple sacrament. But for many families, the day still holds deep meaning – even if the budget now requires careful planning.
Also read: 80% of Spaniards no longer attend mass