The month of December in Málaga offers a magical experience for the whole family, filled with Christmas joy and atmospheric events. From enchanting Christmas decorations in the botanical gardens to spectacular light shows on Calle Larios, there’s something for everyone. We’ve put together a complete guide for those who are on the Costa del Sol this December and want to soak up the Spanish Christmas spirit.
- Angélical, El Reino de los Ángeles de la Navidad in Jardín Botánico – Histórico La Concepción
- Málaga Christmas light switch-on
- Christmas market Muelle Uno and Paseo de Parque in Málaga
- Christmas market in Benalmadéna
- Christmas market in Fuengirola
- El Pueblo Navideño
- New Year in Málaga
Angélical, El Reino de los Ángeles de la Navidad in Jardín Botánico – Histórico La Concepción
The enchanting La Concepción Botanical Garden opens its doors for the Christmas season with a magical decoration that invites the whole family into a fairytale Christmas universe. Take a breathtaking journey through the more than 2 kilometers of illuminated paths where decorative Christmas installations create an enchanting atmosphere. In addition to the impressive decorations, you can also look forward to entertainment in the form of musical performances and activities designed especially for the youngest. This year introduces a brand new Christmas installation that invites you to follow the three wise men on their magical journey towards the Guiding Star. For an optimal experience, it is recommended to arrive early as the event is extremely popular and there may be a queue at the entrance.
When: From November 27 to January 8 from 18:30-22:30.
Where: Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción, Málaga.
Málaga Christmas light switch-on
Every year, Calle Larios in Málaga attracts visitors from all over the world for the first light switch-on with its amazing Christmas show. The lights on the street create a magical backdrop for shopping and enjoying local delicacies. The musical light show takes place three times a day at 18:30, 20:00 and 22:00, except on December 24 and 31. It’s a great opportunity to capture beautiful moments and breathe in the true Christmas spirit.
When: The first switch-on will take place on Friday, November 24, 2023.
Where: Calle Larios, Málaga.
Christmas market Muelle Uno and Paseo de Parque in Málaga
Paseo de Parque and Muelle Uno are popular spots in Málaga and become even more charming during the Christmas season. Here you’ll find stalls with Christmas gifts, decorations and crafts. You can also taste delicious Spanish Christmas specialties like churros and hot chocolate. Both areas are open for several weeks, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the delights of the Christmas market.
When: Paseo de Parque from d. November 31 to January 10, from 12-18 and Muelle Uno from 10-18.
Where: Paseo de Parque and Muelle Uno, Málaga.
Christmas market in Benalmadéna
At the Christmas market in Benalmadéna you can find 50 stalls with a mix of different handmade Christmas decorations and other Christmas items. During the days, there will also be various activities for children and the opportunity to taste local Christmas delicacies. A fun activity for the whole family!
When: December 5 to January 6 from 13-23.
Where: Casa de la Cultura de Benalmádena.
Christmas market in Fuengirola
Christmas is in full swing in the coastal town of Fuengirola, with Christmas spirit in every corner of the town. Spread throughout the city center, you’ll find various events with light installations, Christmas landscape displays and stalls with everything from food to a wide range of unique gifts and decorations. From late November to mid-December, Plaza de la Constitución in Fuengirola is transformed into a lively and festive Christmas market that attracts locals and tourists alike. This Christmas market is a special event that allows people to experience the magical atmosphere of Christmas while supporting local artisans and businesses.
The Christmas market consists of 17 wooden huts set up in the popular square in Fuengirola. These huts are filled with a wealth of innovative, original and imaginative goods, making it the ideal place for visitors to find unique Christmas gifts, decorations and treats. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Christmas and create special memories with your family.
When: November 24 to December 17.
Where: Plaza de la Constitución, Fuengirola.
El Pueblo Navideño
Every December, the well-known retail chain El Corte Inglés brings joy to the heart of Málaga by setting up their charming attraction, El Pueblo Navideño. This is a place with family fun at its heart, where you can experience everything from carousels, snow decorations, sledges, slides, a Christmas train and even an ice rink. If you’re visiting Málaga with children during December, this is one attraction you simply shouldn’t miss. Málaga’s ice rink at El Corte Inglés is usually set up in the first days of December and is open to the public until after Epiphany. Tickets can be purchased directly at the box office for around €6 per person.
When: Official opening hours are from Monday to Sunday 11:00-14:00 and 16:00-22:00.
Where: El Corte Inglés in Málaga, Av. Andalucía in the central district.
New Year in Málaga
Traditionally, every New Year’s Eve, thousands of locals and visitors gather in the Plaza de la Constitucion in Málaga to say goodbye to the year to the sound of the bells. The city center, lit up with Christmas motifs, is one of the most beautiful places to say goodbye to 2023 and welcome 2024. After the bells, participants can enjoy live music and dance until dawn. Night owls will have the opportunity to see the first dawn of the new year while enjoying a typical hot chocolate with churros.
When: December 31st.
Where: Plaza de la Constitución, Málaga.
