Christmas in Lanzarote is not in a hurry.
It does not arrive with the chaotic noise of shopping malls, nor with the biting cold that forces you to stay indoors.
It comes slowly, with the trade winds moving the palms and a light that seems to stop time.
Christmas in Lanzarote smells of sea salt, Malvasía wine, and ancient traditions.
It is celebrated outdoors, with light jackets and the priceless feeling of having the sea as a backdrop.
It doesn’t snow, but the atmosphere is still magical — just different.
December in Lanzarote is a gentle month.
During the day, the temperature remains around 22-24°C, warm enough to walk on the beach or have lunch on the terrace with the sun on your skin. At sunset, the sky is painted pink and orange, like a postcard that renews every evening.
While elsewhere people rush, here we breathe.
Every corner of the island is ready for Christmas. The municipalities of Lanzarote are dressed for the occasion, from the illuminated streets to the Christmas markets. Each town has its own way of celebrating, but what unites them is a warm and welcoming atmosphere that envelops visitors.
Even though the mild climate does not invite snow, the Christmas decorations and colorful lights make every corner of the island special, especially the main squares, where families gather to stroll and discover the local nativity scenes.
One of the most cherished traditions of Christmas in Lanzarote is the Belénes. Here, nativity scenes are not just simple representations of the Nativity but stories of the island; they are artistic miniatures that reproduce volcanic landscapes, the white villages with their bell towers, and the vineyards of La Geria. Each municipality adds a unique detail: a street, a monument, a piece of history.
Among the most well-known:
During the Christmas holidays, Arrecife it transforms into a magical place, where colorful lights decorate the promenade, the Castle of San Gabriel and the Templete de la Musica. The Christmas light switch-on, scheduled for the end of November, is an event that attracts residents and tourists every year. The streets of the capital fill with sparkling lights and decorations that create a unique atmosphere, giving visitors an unforgettable visual experience.
To fully experience the magic of Arrecife during the Christmas season, we recommend that you explore the city with the Arrecife audioguide by World2Wander. This audioguide will take you to discover the most significant places in the capital, telling you stories, curiosities, and details that will enrich your journey and help you appreciate every corner of the city with fresh eyes.
One of the most magical moments of Christmas in Lanzarote is the Christmas Festival of Arrecife, Navilán, which takes place at the Charco de San Ginés.
Little wooden houses welcome the local artisans, while the Christmas lights reflect in the water, creating a unique atmosphere.
In the air, the aroma of churros, of the wine of La Geria, of cinnamon. Concerts, workshops for children, ice skating rink, shows, the Santa Claus house and the Ferris wheel.
A real Christmas party that combines tradition and fun.
On January 5th, the Three Wise Men arrive by sea, a deeply cherished tradition in Lanzarote. In Lanzarote, the Three Wise Men arrive by boat and, riding their camels, traverse the streets of Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, and all the municipalities of the island. Children, eager, wait along the route to throw candies and receive a smile. The parade of the Three Wise Men is accompanied by music, dances and a crowd that applauds this event that unites young and old in a single festive spirit.
This tradition mixes religiosity with the magic of the popular festival, offering a unique experience that celebrates union and joy.
It’s worth completing the tradition by tasting the roscón de Reyes, a typical Spanish sweet prepared for the occasion. The roscón is a soft ring-shaped cake, covered with colorful candied fruit and often hiding a small gift and a bean. Tradition has it that whoever finds the small gift receives a special fortune for the coming year!
Christmas in Lanzarote is experienced differently: without hurry, without stress, without the cold that forces you indoors.
Among volcanoes, sea, and ancient traditions, Lanzarote teaches us that Christmas doesn’t need snow to be special.
Those who visit the island in December discover a simpler and more authentic Christmas, made up of moments outdoors, local events, and a community that welcomes naturally.
In the coming weeks, it will be possible to learn about the upcoming Christmas events in Lanzarote on the web pages of:
