Christmas in Málaga, what to do? The city is amazing if you love the Christmas spirit. There is plenty to do. Would you rather skip the seasonal festivities? Go into nature. The weather is often wonderful at Christmas, so it is perfect for a walk or to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

Christmas in Málaga, what to do?

Málaga is one of the top 20 nicest cities to experience the Christmas atmosphere. This is thanks to the many Christmas lights, the Christmas trees in the city, the Christmas market, the nativity scenes and much more. Below you can read how to get into the real Christmas spirit in Málaga.

Christmas lights in Málaga

The last Friday of November is the day that the Christmas lights in the city of Málaga are switched on. Every year, the shopping street Calle Larios is transformed into a true Christmas spectacle. A sound and light show can be seen until January 4. Except on 24 and 31 December. There are set times to watch the lights, as we say here; 6.30 pm, 8 pm and 10 pm.

This year (2024), on 23, 25, 26, 27 and 28 December, the Panda group from Almogía will perform Verdiales. This traditional music and dance originated in the mountains around Málaga. You can read more about the verdiales in this blog.

Christmas in Málaga; Video Mapping

Besides the Christmas lights, a 3D sound and light show will be on display at the cathedral in the city centre. Between 1 December and 4 January, you can enjoy this modern technology every evening at 7 pm, 8.30 pm, and 10 pm (no show on 24 and 31 December). This year, there is also a videohe Málaga town hall on the projection at Edificio de la Casona del Parque.

Even more Christmas lights in Málaga

For those who want to see even more Christmas lights and decorations, you have to visit Calle San Juan. This street is divided into three zones. The first zone is the Salón Chandelier, which has a romantic atmosphere. The second zone is Cielo Thai, where passers-by can enjoy Thai lanterns. The third zone is La Cueva Mágica, where you imagine yourself in a cave.
The large trees on La Alameda Principal Street are also lit up, giving a fairy-tale feel.

Admire nativity scenes in Málaga

Nativity scenes can be admired in the city centre of Málaga The nativity scene in the town hall is the largest. Soon we shall add a route where the nativity scenes can be admired even more.

Fairytale lights in the botanical garden

Just outside Málaga, the Christmas spirit continues. Last year, the Botanical Garden in Málaga was completely transformed into a Christmas atmosphere. Thousands of lights illuminate the trees and plants in this beautiful garden. A great experience will be on display again this year from 27 November to 6 January (except December 24 and 31) from 6.30 pm to 9.30 pm.

Do not forget to buy an entrance ticket online in advance. Prices vary from 10 to 14 euros per person. Because there is limited parking, it is wise to take the special bus to the Botanical Garden in the centre of Málaga. (Line 91 from Vialia train station, bus ticket you can buy together online with your entrance ticket.)

Lantern festival

New this year is the Festival de las Linternas in Parque del Oeste. This festival is inspired by the Chinese New Year. From 30 November 2024 to 15 February 2025, many large and colourful lanterns can be seen in the park. Entrance tickets can be ordered here. They cost between 15 and 20 euros per person. There are 4 different times to visit the park; 6 pm, 7.15 pm, 8.30 pm and 9.45 pm. (24 and 31 December only at 6 pm and 7.15 pm)

Christmas in the province of Málaga, what to do?

In the interior of Andalusia, about 90 km from Finca Las Nuevas, lies the village of Rute. This small village has a high concentration of small museums that make for a fun day out in the Christmas spirit.

Around Christmas time you can visit the Galleros artesanos & Belén de Chocolate. Here the typical Christmas cookies are made. These biscuits are sold in all supermarkets and stalls in every village and town. The cookies are single-wrapped.

Besides the cookies, you can also see a huge nativity scene made of chocolate and an exhibition about Turrón. Turrón, nougat is also a typical Spanish delicacy that is often eaten during Christmas.

Almost next door is the Museo del Anís, where you can see the history of a liqueur distillery. Also nearby is the Museo del Azúcar, where you can see reproductions of the most important buildings of Andalusia and other countries made of sugar.

To learn more about the history of ham, you can look at the Museo de Jamón.

Christmas in Spain, did you know?

… Spaniards often celebrate Christmas at home with family and many restaurants are closed on December 25.

… Spain does not have Boxing Day.

… Children sometimes receive presents on both Christmas Eve (Dec 24) and Three Kings Day (Jan 6).

… You have to wear red underwear on New Year’s Eve so that you are guaranteed a beautiful new year.

… Three Kings parades can be seen on January 6. Fun for kids.

Fleeing Christmas in Málaga

Do you want to come to Spain to escape Christmas? Then you are certainly in the right place in Andalusia. In December the weather is often still wonderful. This is a perfect time for visiting towns or taking lovely walks. If you are looking for nice accommodation, you are more than welcome in our holiday homes at Finca Las Nuevas.

Check the availability at Finca Las Nuevas here.