Málaga at Christmas is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. The good weather all year round, even in December, offers tourists a unique experience for their Christmas holiday under the Mediterranean sun. Here I’ll show you what to do in Malaga at Christmas, but don’t miss out on everything Malaga has to offer all year round.
The Christmas Lights in Larios Street
In December, Málaga’s historic center comes alive with festive lights and Christmas decorations. The highlight is undoubtedly the dazzling display on Larios Street, the main thoroughfare of the historic center. Three times daily (at 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM, and 9:00 PM), a spectacular light show synchronizes with music, offering a unique experience that changes each year. However, be prepared for crowds, as Málaga is one of Spain’s most popular Christmas destinations.
The lights are on from November 29th, with the light show occurring daily, except on December 24th and 31st. While Larios Street is the star attraction, don’t miss exploring the entire old town, which is beautifully decorated for the season!
Lantern Festival
From November 30th to February 15th, Málaga hosts the Lantern Festival in Parque del Oeste, conveniently accessible via the metro at the La Luz-La Paz stop.
This festival celebrates the traditional Chinese Lantern Festival, with this year honoring the Year of the Snake. The park features over 4,000 stunning lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.
Tickets start at €15, with prices varying depending on the day, and weekends being more expensive. Four daily shows are held at 6:00 PM, 7:15 PM, 8:30 PM, and 9:45 PM.
For official details and reservations, visit the festival’s website.
Christmas Markets
While Christmas markets in Spain may not be quite like those in other parts of Europe, they are definitely worth visiting. In Málaga, the main Christmas markets can be found on the Paseo del Parque and at Muelle Uno, the harbor’s shopping area. Unlike many other European markets, these stay open after Christmas and run until January 10th at Muelle Uno.
The Christmas markets are a must-see during your festive visit to Málaga.
The Botanic Garten full of Christmas Lights
La Concepción Botanical Garden transforms into a festive wonderland for Christmas. From November 29th to January 6th (excluding December 24th and 31st), visitors can enjoy a beautifully illuminated tour of the garden from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. The 2.2-kilometer route takes you through enchanting settings like Persia, Babylon, and Bethlehem. Admission is €15.50 for adults and €11.50 for children.
I hope you have a wonderful time experiencing all that Málaga has to offer this Christmas and enjoy your stay in this sunny city.
Typical Christmas Sweets in Málaga
- Turrones: A classic Christmas treat across Spain, turrón is a sweet made from almonds, sugar, and honey. It comes in various types, such as soft or hard, and is often shared with family during the holiday season.
- Roscón de Reyes: Traditionally enjoyed on Epiphany, which follows Christmas, this sweet pastry is decorated with candied fruit and is a favorite in Málaga and throughout Spain during the festive period.
- Polvorones y Mantecados: These traditional biscuits, made from flour, sugar, and lard, are especially popular at Christmas. They are deliciously crumbly and melt in your mouth.
- Pestiños: These fried treats are made from wheat flour and olive oil, then sweetened with honey or sugar. Pestiños are a beloved delicacy throughout Andalusia during the Christmas season, with each family often adding their own unique twist to the recipe.
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