Christmas in Tenerife – A Unique Festive Celebration Under the Sun

Christmas in Tenerife offers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience, where traditional Spanish and Canarian customs blend seamlessly with the warm climate and island lifestyle. Instead of snow-covered streets, visitors enjoy sun-drenched beaches, palm trees adorned with festive lights, and open-air celebrations that make Christmas on the island an unforgettable experience.

For travelers looking to escape the cold while still enjoying the magic of the season, Tenerife provides the perfect combination of festive traditions, local delicacies, cultural events, and breathtaking scenery.

Traditional Christmas Celebrations in Tenerife

Despite the warm weather, Tenerife still embraces classic Christmas customs, with Nativity scenes, festive markets, and religious traditions taking center stage.

Nativity Scenes (Belenes) – A Canarian Christmas Tradition

One of the most cherished traditions during Christmas in Tenerife is the elaborate Nativity scenes, known as belenes, which can be found in town squares, churches, shopping centers, and even private homes.
The most spectacular Nativity scene is in Candelaria, featuring life-sized figurines depicting the birth of Christ, often incorporating Canarian landscapes and local characters.
Some of the best places to see Belenes:
✔ Plaza de España in Santa Cruz – One of the largest public displays.
✔ La Orotava – Features beautifully crafted traditional Nativity scenes.
✔ Candelaria – A religious and cultural highlight of the season.

Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) – A Night of Family and Tradition

In Tenerife, December 24th, known as Nochebuena, is the most important night of the Christmas season.
Families gather for an elaborate dinner featuring roasted meats, seafood, traditional Canarian soups, and sweets such as turrón (nougat) and truchas de batata (sweet potato pastries).
The evening often ends with the traditional Misa del Gallo (Midnight Mass), where churches across the island hold solemn but beautiful ceremonies celebrating the birth of Christ.

Christmas Events & Attractions for Visitors

Tenerife offers many exciting activities for tourists during the Christmas season, blending festive cheer with outdoor experiences that make the island stand out as a winter destination.

Christmas Markets – A Festive Shopping Experience

Christmas markets are a great way to experience local culture, buy handcrafted gifts, and taste seasonal Canarian delicacies. Some of the best markets include:
✔ Santa Cruz Christmas Market – Located in Plaza del Príncipe, this market features handmade crafts, festive decorations, and traditional Canarian foods.
✔ Puerto de la Cruz Christmas Fair – A coastal Christmas market offering local wines, cheeses, and artisanal souvenirs.
✔ La Laguna Christmas Market – Set in the historic center, this market is ideal for exploring Tenerife’s colonial charm while shopping for unique holiday gifts.

Christmas Concerts – A Unique Island Tradition

One of the most famous Christmas events in Tenerife is the Annual Christmas Concert at the Port of Santa Cruz, held on December 25th.

Performed by the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra, this open-air concert attracts thousands of locals and visitors, offering a spectacular musical experience by the ocean.
The concert is free to attend, making it a must-see event for music lovers visiting Tenerife during Christmas.

New Year’s Eve (Nochevieja) – Welcome the New Year Island-Style

New Year’s Eve in Tenerife is an extravagant celebration, filled with fireworks, live music, and street parties.
✔ Plaza de la Candelaria (Santa Cruz) – The biggest New Year's Eve party in Tenerife, featuring fireworks, live DJs, and thousands of people dancing in the streets.
✔ Puerto de la Cruz & Costa Adeje – Beachfront celebrations with open-air concerts and spectacular fireworks displays over the Atlantic.
✔ Traditional "Twelve Grapes of Luck" Ritual – As midnight strikes, locals and visitors eat twelve grapes, one for each chime of the clock, to ensure good luck for the new year.

The Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de los Reyes) – A Grand Finale to the Festivities

While Christmas and New Year’s Eve are celebrated with joy and music, the highlight for many locals, especially children, is January 5th – the Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos).

On the eve of January 6th, huge parades take place across Tenerife, reenacting the arrival of the Three Wise Men(Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar) as they deliver gifts to children.
The largest parade happens in Santa Cruz, featuring elaborate floats, camels, dancers, and marching bands, making it one of the most magical events of the season.
Instead of Santa Claus, Canarian children receive their presents from the Three Kings on January 6th, following a night of excitement and celebration.

Anecdote: The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen

In 1994, Tenerife faced one of its rainiest Decembers on record, threatening to cancel the annual Christmas Concert at the Port of Santa Cruz for the first time in history. As thousands of people gathered, hopeful that the rain would stop, the orchestra members made a bold decision – they would play, rain or shine.

As the musicians began the first notes, something incredible happened – the rain stopped almost instantly, and the skies cleared just in time for the concert. The event became legendary among locals, with many believing it was a Christmas miracle, proving that nothing can dampen the festive spirit of Tenerife.

Final Thoughts – Why Spend Christmas in Tenerife?

✔ A festive atmosphere with warm weather – Celebrate Christmas under the sun while enjoying traditional festivities.
✔ A blend of Spanish and Canarian traditions – Experience unique holiday customs, from the Three Kings Parade to open-air concerts.
✔ Delicious seasonal food and Christmas markets – Enjoy traditional Canarian Christmas sweets, local wines, and handmade gifts.
✔ A lively New Year's Eve celebration – Join thousands in spectacular fireworks shows and street parties.
✔ Overall holiday experience – ★★★★★

Spending Christmas in Tenerife is a truly magical experience, where tradition, celebration, and sunshine come together to create an unforgettable holiday season. Whether you’re wandering through Christmas markets, enjoying live music, or celebrating New Year’s Eve on the beach, Tenerife offers a unique and festive alternative to the typical winter holiday.

Christmas in Tenerife - A Unique Festive Celebration Under the Sun

See also

The Canary Islands International Music Festival

Wine Festivals and Wineries in Tenerife: A Journey Through History and Tradition

Volcanos of Tenerife - More Then 300!