Christmas Eve, also known as “La Noche Buena,” is a meaningful cultural celebration in Spain, the Philippines, and Latin American countries that span Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. In Charlotte, North Carolina, chef Adriana “Dre” Cavazos, can hardly wait to celebrate with her family – it’s a longstanding tradition.

“Christmas Eve has always been a big deal in my family,” says the Orlando, Florida native, recalling making tamales with her family assembly-line style. “We also watch Christmas movies, make hot chocolate using Abuelita chocolate, bake cookies, wear pajamas, play many rounds of loteria, and stay up ‘til midnight so we can finally open all our gifts to the sound of classic Christmas songs.”

Ever since the Customshop pastry chef and chef de cuisine of Emmy Lou’s can remember, her parents have always made Christmas Eve feel like the most wonderful time of the year. “And by 1 a.m., the living room is covered in wrapping paper, smiles, and happiness.”

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