Once again, King Felipe VI will address the Spanish nation in his annual Christmas Eve message. This cherished tradition, watched by millions across the country, continues to be a moment of reflection and unity during the festive season.
Tonight’s speech, airing at 9.00 pm in mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands (8.00 pm in the Canary Islands), promises to tackle pressing issues while maintaining the King’s typically measured tone.
The event is customarily filmed in the Audience Hall of the Zarzuela Palace. However, viewers may be surprised this year. Rumours suggest the King could deliver his address from the El Pardo palace, adding a symbolic twist to the broadcast. Confirmation will only come when the speech airs.
Topics likely to dominate
Speculation about the King’s topics of focus is rife. Observers expect him to address the devastating floods caused by the late October DANA storm in Valencia. This natural disaster has left scars on communities and remains a national concern.
Political polarisation is another hot topic. With tensions running high after Spain’s recent elections, the monarch may call for unity and dialogue. Economic challenges, particularly inflation and unemployment, are also anticipated to feature in the speech.
Where to watch the royal message
The speech will be widely broadcast on Spanish television networks, including La 1, La 2, TVE Internacional, and Canal 24 Horas, all part of RTVE’s portfolio. Private channels like Antena 3, Cuatro, Telecinco, and LaSexta will also carry the address, as will most regional broadcasters affiliated with FORTA. Notable exceptions include EiTB in the Basque Country and TV3 in Catalonia.
For those preferring digital platforms, the Royal Household will stream the speech on its official YouTube channel (@casarealtv) and X account (@CasaReal). Regardless of how audiences tune in, RTVE will handle the production and distribution.
Highlights from past Christmas Eve speeches
Spain’s Christmas Eve royal addresses have long provided moments of solemnity, reflection, and sometimes unintended levity. Over the years, these speeches have offered a window into the priorities and style of each monarch.
King Juan Carlos I: a phrase for the ages
The late King Juan Carlos I often began his addresses with the now-iconic phrase “La reina y yo” (“The Queen and I”). This opening became his trademark, so familiar that it was widely parodied in Spanish media. His speeches frequently addressed critical national events, including the attempted coup of 1981 and the Madrid train bombings in 2004. Juan Carlos I’s rhetoric was shaped by Spain’s transition to democracy and its consolidation in the face of crises.
King Felipe VI: a different approach
Felipe VI, who succeeded his father in 2014, took a different tone in his first few Christmas Eve speeches. Notably, in 2015, he abandoned the traditional “La reina y yo” in favour of a simple “Buenas noches” (“Good evening”). His addresses have often focused on the unity and resilience of the Spanish people. Herewith, tackling sensitive topics like the 2017 Catalan independence referendum and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. The King’s speeches are characterised by a modern style and a call for solidarity amidst Spain’s evolving challenges.
2023: A year of tensions
Last year’s address was particularly poignant, as King Felipe VI centred his remarks on Spain’s Constitution and the need for national cohesion. Delivered during a year marked by deep political divisions, the speech underscored the importance of constitutional values in preserving democracy and fostering coexistence. It was a direct appeal for unity. Herewith, reflecting the monarch’s role as a stabilising figure in turbulent times.
Also read: Key moments from ten years of King Felipe VI’s reign