Christmas in the Canary Islands 2024-2025

Christmas is quite a busy time in the Canary Islands, with many tourists willing to escape the cold and snow in favor of sunny days by the sea. The weather is one of the main reasons to spend Christmas in the Canarias. But authentic festive traditions are also worth visiting the islands in December. Come to spot a unique Nativity scene made of sand or attend a traditional night Christmas concert on the beach. Also, you won't get any presents from Santa or St. Nickolas in the Canary Islands. Instead, the Three Kings are in charge of gifts on Epiphany (January 6).

Christmas Belén or Nativity Scene

Throughout the holiday season, each town and village across the Canary Islands creates its own Belén, or nativity scene, portraying traditional Biblical moments, often with touches of modern life woven in. These intricately crafted displays, brimming with tiny details, are showcased in shop windows, churches, and courtyards. Some of the most captivating examples, however, are crafted from sand directly on the beaches. A visit to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria offers the chance to see the iconic Belén de Arena on Canteras Beach—a breathtaking nativity scene sculpted from sand by international artists. This temporary work of art rises over five meters high, a stunning testament to the fleeting beauty.

Best Islands to Spend Christmas

Each island offers its unique appeal for memorable Christmas holidays, with the top three destinations being Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Tenerife. Gran Canaria, known for its charming towns, is ideal for families as well as those seeking a lively nightlife scene. Fuerteventura, on the other hand, is a paradise for nature lovers, with stunning landscapes and pristine beaches. For an unforgettable Christmas night concert by the sea, Tenerife is the place to be.

Parade of the Three Wise Men

If you find yourself in the Canary Islands on January 5, you can experience one of Spain's most cherished traditions: the parade of the Three Wise Men. Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthasar make their way through the streets of the islands' main cities and towns, bringing joy and gifts to children eagerly awaiting the holiday. This vibrant procession is a festive display filled with storybook characters, marching bands, and dancing groups. It creates a magical atmosphere for young ones who anticipate waking up to gifts the next day in reward for their good behavior.

Autos de Reyes

Alongside the traditional Three Kings parade, which brings excitement to children and adults across the Canary Islands as Their Majesties make their festive visit, many towns also celebrate with the "Autos de Reyes." These dramatized performances recount the long journey of the Three Kings from the East to Bethlehem to honor the Child Jesus with gifts. Each "Autos de Reyes" has unique variations depending on the town or setting—whether held inside a church, in the main square, or across multiple stages around the town. For example, Agüimes in Gran Canaria hosts one of the largest and most celebrated renditions, drawing over 300 participants to bring the story to life. Other well-known performances take place in Tejina on Tenerife, Mogán and Gáldar on Gran Canaria, Betancuria on Fuerteventura, and Garafía on La Palma, among other locations.