What's going on in Marbella at Xmas? Thinking about Marbella might bring up images of sunny days and sangria, not exactly the usual Christmas vibes with frosty mornings and hot chocolate. But guess what? Marbella is just as awesome, if not more so, during the holiday season!
This year, the weather has been especially good, but that's not the only reason to consider a Christmas trip. The Costa del Sol turns into a festive haven with towns and villages lighting up for Christmas. There's a bunch of stuff happening – from cool Christmas lights to lively markets and shows.
In this week's blog, we spill the beans on what a Christmas trip to Marbella looks like. We've got the lowdown on the festivities and some great holiday rentals that'll make your season extra special. Check it out!
The Costa Christmas Lights
During the holiday season, every little town along the coast goes all out! One spot we absolutely adore is the Plaza de los Naranjos in Old Town Marbella – their Christmas display is just beautiful.
But the real star of the show has to be the world-renowned Malaga Christmas lights. Mark your calendar for Friday, November 24th, when they'll flip the switch at 7pm. Then, from 7pm to 10 pm every evening, you catch the show with it's enchanting light and sound extravaganza.
The 2023 display will include 16 celestial angels on 32 columns stretched along the entire length of the call Larios. It's a sight to behold after dark, and even in the daylight, it's pretty darn impressive.
Christmas Fun for the Whole Family
The whole family will be sure to enjoy the festive lights and markets, but don't forget to keep an eye out for the numerous nativity scenes scattered along the coast.
For a jolly good time, you can take the little ones to visit Santa Claus or the Spanish 'Papa Noel' at the La Cañada and Miramar commercial centers. And if you're in Marbella on Christmas day, catch him parading the streets after making a grand entrance by boat at Marbella port.
Getting into the holiday spirit with the family? Head to an ice rink for some Christmas cheer. You'll find one in Torremolinos and at the Corte Inglés department store in Malaga, complete with a toboggan and log-walk.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for the traditional chestnut stalls scattered across the Costa during Christmas. The aroma of roasting chestnuts wafting through the streets is a December delight, and Christmas in Spain just wouldn't be the same without them
The Christmas Garden Extravaganza!
The Christmas Garden is making a triumphant return to the beautiful botanical gardens this year, and they're calling it "Angelical: The Kingdom of Christmas Angels." Picture this: eight awesome sections combining the gardens, monuments, and a fantastic light show. Last year's snapshot below should give you a taste of what's in store.
Save the dates – December 1 to January 7 – and snag your tickets. For adults, it's €13.50 to €15.50, and for the little ones aged 3 to 12, it's €9.50 to €11.50 (weekend tickets are a tad pricier). Want in? Head to this link for all the deets and to grab your tickets. Don't miss out on this holiday spectacle!
Christmas Markets Unwrapped!
MARBELLA: What's going on in Marbella at Xmas? Head to Plaza Antonio Banderas in Puerto Banus for a charming Christmas market loaded with fabulous gift ideas.
MALAGA: The granddaddy of them all, the main Christmas market on Paseo de Parque de Malaga, is a must-visit and one of the biggest on the Costa del Sol.
MIJAS: Experience the festive vibes at La Cala de Mijas International Christmas Fair, where you can indulge in hot wines, crafts, and Christmas treats. Plus, there's carol singing, kids' activities, a parade, and appearances by Santa and the 3 wise men!
FUENGIROLA: Find your holiday cheer at Fuengirola's Plaza de la Constitucion, home to around 17 stalls, carol singing, and a Christmas panto at the Salon Varieties.
TORREMOLINOS: Get into the spirit at the central Plaza Costa del Sol in Torremolinos, featuring a Christmas market with a Santa's house and children's attractions throughout December and into January.
So, what's going on in Marbella at Xmas? A whole lot thats's what! Check out our holiday rentals available over the festive period!