What to Do in Málaga at Christmas 2023

What to Do in Málaga at Christmas 2023

Christmas in Málaga: Must-Do Activities

Many travellers choose to visit the Costa del Sol during the Christmas season due to its pleasant weather. To give you an idea, temperatures rarely drop below 10°C and often reach 20°C. It’s the perfect choice! Besides the warm climate, our beautiful city is bustling with festive activities during the Christmas period: events, gastronomy, lights, carols… all with the cheerful and laid-back spirit of the south.

What to do this Christmas in Málaga? If you enjoy original, fun, and interesting plans, whether with kids, as a couple, with family, or friends, you’re in the right city.

In this guide, we’ll show you the best free activities, how to discover Christmas in central Málaga, cultural and entertainment options, family-friendly plans, and, of course, local traditions that make this city a unique destination for celebrating Christmas. Don’t miss out on the magic of Málaga this festive season!

Here are some of our top Christmas plans…

Free Activities in Málaga

During these weeks, Málaga dresses up for the Christmas season.

Here are some activities you can enjoy for free in this beautiful city:

See the Lights on Calle Larios: New York has its Rockefeller Center, London its Trafalgar Square, and Málaga its Calle Larios, Alcazabilla, Alameda, and Parque. Málaga has truly become the Christmas capital, with a renewed and expanded Christmas lighting display that outdoes itself every year.

If you visit Málaga during this time, you can’t miss the Christmas light forest on Calle Larios and its musical shows. The showtimes are 18:30, 20:00, and 21:30 every day, except December 24 and 31.

From Monday to Thursday, the lights turn off at midnight. From Friday to Sunday, they stay on until 02:00.

Admire the Video Mapping at the Cathedral: The shows will be at 18:45, 20:00, and 22:00 every day from December 1 to January 4, except December 24 and 31.

Visit the Enchanted Tree at Alameda Principal

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Plaza de la Constitución

Explore the Christmas Markets

Visit the Christmas Market at El Corte Inglés

-Join a Free Tour of Málaga

You also have the opportunity to:

See the Light Show at the Botanical Garden of Málaga

Try Christmas Sweets: Don’t miss the chance to visit the Christmas market stalls and taste local seasonal treats. You can also take a stroll through the Parque de la Alameda and enjoy the city’s Christmas lights.

Discovering Christmas in the Heart of Málaga

Explore the heart of Málaga during the Christmas season and feel the magic of the city. Places like Calle Larios and Alameda Principal are adorned with lights and decorations that will transport you to a Christmas wonderland. Stroll through these streets and be amazed by the festive atmosphere that permeates the air.

In Alcazabilla, you can enjoy a unique experience at the Christmas market, where you’ll find handcrafted gifts and decorations. You can also visit Muelle Uno, a perfect spot to enjoy a festive afternoon with views of Málaga Bay. Don’t forget to try the delicious roasted chestnuts and traditional turrón while you wander through the city center.

Discover the charm of Christmas in the heart of Málaga!

Cultural and Entertainment Activities

Málaga is a city rich in culture and entertainment year-round, and during the Christmas season, the options multiply. If you’re a theater enthusiast, you can enjoy festive performances at Teatro del Soho and other city theaters. Additionally, museums also get into the Christmas spirit with special exhibitions and activities for this time of year.

For music lovers, Málaga offers a wide variety of Christmas concerts, ranging from classical to pop and rock. And for those seeking a different kind of entertainment, the Museum of Imagination provides a unique experience where visitors can interact with video games and Christmas-themed environments.

Some of the cultural activities are:

-Miércoles 20 de diciembre, 20:00h 

María José Llergo

-Jueves 21 de diciembre, 20:00h

Vicente Amigo en concierto

-Viernes 22 de diciembre, 18:00h 

Mozartland 

-Viernes 22 de diciembre, 20:00h 

The New Orleans Gospel Stars. The Streets of New Orleans

-Sábado 23 de diciembre, 20:00h 

Zambomba de Jerez en casa de la Curra. Compañía de Flamenco Manuel de la Curra.

-Sábado 23 de diciembre, 20:00h

Miryam Latrece

-Martes 26, miércoles 27 y jueves 28 (dos pases diarios, 18:00 y 21:00h)

Mi año favorito. En vivo y en directo con Dani Rovira y Arturo González-Campos.

-26,27,28,29 y 30 de diciembre a las 18:00h 

El árbol de mi vida

-Viernes 29 de diciembre, 16:30 y 20:00h

El Cascanueces. Ballet de Kiev

-Sábado 30 de diciembre, 20:00h 

La Insostenible Big Band. Gershwin & Porter: El swing filosofal 

-Martes 2 y miércoles 3 de enero, 18:00h 

La banda pirata.

-Miércoles 3 de enero de 2024, 20:00h

Concierto extraordinario de Año Nuevo 2024. Orquesta Filarmónica de Málaga.

-Jueves 4, 17:00h y viernes 5 de enero, 12:00h 

Blancanieves, El Musical

-Sábado 6 de enero, 17:00h

La máquina de Rube Goldberg

-Domingo 7 de enero de 2024, 19:00h

El lago de los cisnes. Ballet Clásico Internacional 

The entertainment options in Málaga during the Christmas season are endless! Don’t miss the chance to enjoy all the cultural and recreational activities the city has to offer during the holidays.

Family and Kids’ Activities

During the Christmas season, Málaga offers a wide variety of activities and plans designed especially for family enjoyment. From interactive museums like the Museum of Imagination to bike rides along the coast, such as the Paseo Marítimo Antonio Banderas, there are options for all tastes and ages.

Other options include ice skating at Plaza de la Victoria, visiting the Miniature City Park, or enjoying a puppet show at the Teatro Cervantes.

Some activities for the little ones:

Deliver the letter to the Three Kings: A cherished tradition where children can hand over their wish lists to the Magi.

Visit the Nativity Scene Route: Explore over 80 nativity scenes, with highlights including the interactive nativity scene set up by the Diputación.

Attend the Three Kings Parade: Experience the magical parade of the Three Kings, a grand event that captivates audiences of all ages.

Christmas Park in Teatinos: Enjoy a festive park offering various holiday-themed activities and attractions for children.

Storytelling at the English Cemetery: Delight in enchanting storytelling sessions held in the atmospheric English Cemetery.

Chocoland at Muelle Uno: Indulge in a delightful chocolate-themed event at Muelle Uno, featuring sweet treats and festive fun.

There’s no doubt that in Málaga, both children and adults will find activities to enjoy together and create unforgettable holiday memories. Don’t miss the chance to share special moments with your family in this beautiful city!

Local Traditions and Authentic Experiences

Engage in local traditions and make the most of the authentic experiences that Málaga offers during the festive season. From visiting nativity scenes to trying the traditional New Year’s Eve grapes, there are many ways to experience Christmas in its most genuine form in Málaga.

One of the most iconic traditions is the Three Kings Parade on January 5th. This grand procession winds through the city’s streets in anticipation of the arrival of the Three Kings.

Another way to immerse yourself in local culture is by visiting the nativity scenes (belenes), a deeply rooted tradition in Málaga. From the most traditional to the more elaborate, these nativity scenes are spread throughout the city and depict the story of Jesus’ birth. You can also join a local brotherhood to take part in the tradition of bringing the Baby Jesus to be blessed at the Málaga Cathedral.

Don’t forget to savor Málaga’s Christmas flavors. Try seasonal tapas such as roscones de reyes (Three Kings cake) and turrón (nougat). Additionally, make sure not to miss the traditional music bands gathering in Plaza de la Constitución on December 23rd, a unique experience that will make you feel like a true Malagueño.

These are just a few of the many traditions and authentic experiences you can enjoy in Málaga during the Christmas season.

Conclusion

In summary, Málaga is the perfect destination to celebrate Christmas with its vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of free activities and events.

With endless activities for the whole family, why not spend a few days in the capital?

Wonderstays offers the best apartments for staying during the Christmas season, close to all these points of interest.

Check availability and immerse yourself in Málaga with Wonderstays.

Abrir chat
💬 ¿Necesitas ayuda?
¡Hola!
¿En qué podemos ayudarte?