December in Malaga: Christmas and much more

We write this article not only for those who are thinking in visiting Malaga this Christmas. But also for those who live here and are looking for ideas or activities in December.

Christmas is celebrated in Malaga with lights and joy, the decoration in december take importance in the city centre and the municipalities.

Weather in Malaga in December

The month of December often misleads those who come for the first time to Malaga. Although the mornings can be quite cold (for a local) with around 7ºC, after 12am it rises to a pleasant 20ºC.

The weather is ideal for practicing many activities, as you will see this article. If it rains, it will be probably something occasional… December is not characterized by bringing heavy rainfall.

Christmas Markets in Malaga & Province

December is the perfect month to enjoy Christmas markets, shop or just stroll around enjoying the Christmas atmosphere and the decor that floods the streets during these dates.

Every year some municipalities of the province organize their own markets. Here you get a short overview of what´s in store for you this year.

Torrox

Enjoy this large Christmas Market in Avenida Esperanto from 5 to 8 December, from 12 to 24 h.

Torre del Mar

In Torre del Mar Will be a Christmas Market on December 28 at Plaza Juan Aguilar Osuna.

Rincón de la Victoria

Christmas market at Plaza de la Constitución from December 5th to January 8th, from 12 pm to 10 pm.

Coín

Christmas market on Saturday, December 13th at Plaza Alameda from 11 am to 2 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Malaga city

Christmas Market at Paseo del Parque: Situated in the beautiful park with centuries-old trees, this was basically the first Christmas Market in Málaga. Open from1 December to 6 January, from 11 am to 10 pm.

Christmas Market at Pier One: One of the best Christmas Markets in Málaga, next to the sea and just a few metres from the historic centre. Open every day until 11 January from 10 am to 10 pm

Torremolinos

There will be a small Christmas Market on Avenida Palma de Mallorca until January 2nd.

Benalmadena

The Christmas Market in Arroyo de la Miel at Plaza Adolfo Suarez from November 28 to January 5.

Mijas Pueblo

In this white village just 7 km from Fuengirola the Christmas Market takes place at Plaza de la Constitución from November 28th to January 5th, from 11 am to 7 pm.

Fuengirola

The Fuengirola Christmas Market will be held from November 27th to December 21st at Plaza de la Constitución.

Marbella & Puerto Banús

There will be a Christmas Market in Avenida del Mar in the city centre, open until January 5th, from 12 pm to 10 pm.

There is also a more exclusive Christmas Market in Puerto Banús at Muelle Ribera from December 6th to January 6th.

And last but noy least, there is also a Christmas market for Cáritas at the Conference and Exhibition Centre from December 11th at 12 pm until December 14th at 9 pm.

Christmas lighting in Malaga

From 28 November the Larios street, main artery of the city of Malaga, is decorated and illuminated for Christmas.

Christmas lighting in Malaga changes every year, it is one of the most beautiful in Europe so you should not miss it.

There will be three light & sound shows every day, at 6.30 pm, 8:30 pm and 10 pm, except on 24 and 31 December.

The lights will be switched on between 6:30 pm and 00 am, on weekends and the eve of public holidays until 2 am. On the 24th and 31st they will be on until 6 am.

In total, more than 80 streets, squares and roundabouts will be decorated with Christmas lights throughout the centre of Malaga. The area is ideal for a walk, there are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants to spend a pleasant evening.

Christmas lighting is usually turned off on January 7.

Traditional Nativity Scenes in Malaga

Every year they organize a a monumental nativity scene inside the Cathedral of Malaga (check for opening times and information). The Nativity scene covers an area of ​​70 square meters and features around 400 figures by renowned Nativity scene sculptors. You can see photos of the incredibly detailed scenes at this link.

If you have not visited it before or you like the Christmas compositions, it could be an interesting option to take in consideration.

In addition to this, there are more traditional nativity scenes throughout the entire Costa del Sol. If you are one of those who adore Christmas season and Traditional Nativity Scenes, you will certainly enjoy those that are displayed in the Cathedral or in the Town hall, open daily from 10am to 2 am  and 5 pm to 9pm.

Christmas dinner

It is common that the night of the 24 to 25 of December takes place a special dinner for Christmas, just before the arrival of Santa Claus (Papa Noel) with the gifts.

You wonder whether there are restaurant options for eating out on Christmas dinner? The answer is yes, but we recommend booking as soon as possible in advance! At this link you may find what you are looking for!

If you are staying in a hotel, ask about Christmas dinner. Many hotels on the Costa del Sol will offer a special Christmas and New Year’s Eve menu, especially the 4-and 5-star hotels.

New Year’s Eve

During this night the atmosphere is festive, many people choose to pay a reservation at an organized party. If you are in Malaga for New Year and want to celebrate it at one of these private parties, keep in mind that that most require early booking.

If you stay in a hotel, ask for the New Year’s party and dinner. Many of them offer dinner with grapes for the bells and a party to celebrate the new year.

At the Constitution Square in Malaga city centre there is a big party from 11 pm onwards. With free admission, you have the option of eating the 12 grapes surrounded by many more people. They will celebrate New Year with music and dance.

Those are some ideas for those who come to Malaga in December. Are you going to spend Christmas in Malaga?

The Three Kings Parade

On the 5th of January, the Three Kings (also known as the Three Wise Men) arrive at Malaga port at 5 pm. From there starts a large parade through the streets of the city centre.

It is a hugely popular family events with thousands of visitors. Melchor, Gaspar and Baltasar are followed by a dozen more carriages, as well as music bands and a pastoral.

Whilst they parade through the main streets of the city, all the members of the cavalcade throw tons of sweets at the crowd of thousands of people that gather round to enjoy this special event.

Keep in mind that the streets in the city centre will be closed throughout the afternoon.

More things to do in Malaga in December

You want to know more things to do in December? Check the top tourist attractions in Malaga or Fairs & Gastronomic Events in Malaga in December.