Christmas in the Canary Islands: Things to Do and Events Until Epiphany

Would you like to spend a Christmas in the Sun? Here are reasons to head to the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands offer the chance to spend a different Christmas, surrounded by sunshine, beaches, and local traditions.

From Christmas Eve to Epiphany, the archipelago welcomes visitors with unmissable events and festivals.

With concerts, lights, and unique nativity scenes, Christmas in the Canaries is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Christmas Traditions of the Canaries

Every island in the Canary Islands celebrates Christmas with a blend of traditional elements and local uniqueness.

The lighting of the lights in Moya, Gran Canaria, is one of the most anticipated events, while in Las Palmas you can admire the famous

Belén de Arena,

a nativity scene entirely sculpted from sand by internationally acclaimed artists.

In the city of Gáldar, celebrations include performances and handcrafted nativity scenes.

The village of Yaiza in Lanzarote stands out for its artistic nativity scene depicting the island's iconic landscapes, while El Hierro features a Christmas tree in Tiñor made entirely from cactus paddles.

Musical Events and Performances

The holiday festivities in the Canaries are alive with music and performances that are deeply rooted in local traditions.

Each island resonates with typical songs performed by folk groups using traditional instruments like the timple (a kind of ukulele), drums, and castanets. An unmissable event is the concert by Los Gofiones, scheduled for December 21, 2024, at the Agüimes Auditorium Theater in Gran Canaria.

With their distinctive style, the group blends traditional rhythms with modern melodies, transforming Christmas carols into a unique and engaging experience.

In Lanzarote, the Víctor Fernández Gopar "El Salinero" Theater in Arrecife will host the concert "Christmas Tales," performed by the Lanzarote Ensemble. A perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of music during the holidays.

New Year's Eve Run

On December 28 in Candelaria, Tenerife, the New Year's Eve Run takes place, a charity race open to everyone.

This inclusive sporting event welcomes people of all ages and abilities, contributing to making the Christmas holidays a time of unity and solidarity.

DISCOVER: DECEMBER BATH IN TENERIFE

The Return of the Three Kings

On January 5, the traditional Three Kings Parade brings life to the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Los Cristianos, and Garachico.

Epiphany is a particularly awaited moment for children, who receive gifts and typical sweets as part of the celebrations.

Sand Nativity Scenes in the Canaries

One of the most distinctive elements of Christmas in the Canaries is the "Belén de Arena" in Las Palmas.

This nativity scene, created by sand sculptors from around the world, attracts thousands of visitors each year.

DISCOVER: WARM NEW YEAR

Things to Do at Christmas in the Canaries

In addition to traditional events and celebrations, the Canary Islands offer numerous activities to make the holiday season even more special.

For beach lovers, the Canary beaches are perfect for a sunny relaxation day even in the middle of winter.

DISCOVER: WARM CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Among the most beautiful beaches to visit is Playa de Las Teresitas in Tenerife or Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, where you can swim or stroll along the golden dunes.

If you prefer a more dynamic activity, you can take advantage of the mild weather for hikes in the national parks, like the Teide National Park in Tenerife or Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote, where you can explore unique volcanic landscapes.