Lanzarote at Christmas

The mooost wonderful time of the year is fast approaching, and with 77 days left until Christmas, it’s time to plan your holidays! Forget snow, rain, or frost—this year, we’re heading to Lanzarote at Christmas which is filled with sunshine, fun, and a tropical twist. So, are you in or out? Of course, you're in!

The Roscón de Reyes cake, with a hidden king and bean! 

What to do in Lanzarote at Christmas

Lanzarote might be known as one of the Canary Islands particularly loved for its volcanic, awe-inspiring landscapes, however, during the Christmas season the island transforms into a festive Christmas bauble of joy and warmth.

Get ready to be sprinkled with festive cheer while strolling around the Christmas markets with a tropical flair as the temperature in Lanzarote at Christmas ranges between 15°C and 21°C. Not too shabby for your festive holidays, right? Now, let’s dive into the exciting things to do in Lanzarote during Christmas!

Experience Navidad Isleña

Lanzarote doesn't just celebrate Christmas; it embraces it the island way! Navidad Isleña is a lively program filled with cultural activities centered around music, taking place in the streets and squares of Arrecife, Teguise, Tinajo, San Bartolomé, Tías and Yaiza.

Throughout this festive season, municipal bands, and folklore groups take center stage, bringing the vibrant sounds of the Christmas carols and spirit of the island to life.

Although the program for Christmas 2024 hasn't been announced yet, make sure to have it on your list to join the celebrations and experience a truly unique Christmas in Lanzarote.

Tip: the Navidad Isleña program extends to the neighboring island of La Graciosa so you can always hop on a ferry from Lanzarote to La Graciosa to dance to the rhythm of Christmas joy.

Celebrate Nochebuena the real way

On the volcanic island of Lanzarote, the heart of the holiday season beats strongest during Nochebuena (meaning “the Good Night”), celebrated on the 24th of December, the night before Christmas. Mark your calendar and get ready to immerse yourself in this magical evening, celebrating Nochebuena like a real local.

After the midnight Mass, known as “La Misa del Gallo,” a festive feast follows. Picture platters of grilled octopus, paired with a drizzle of local olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt alongside a paella packed with fresh mussels, shrimp, and calamari.

If you are a meat lover, a hearty ropa vieja (made from shredded beef and chickpeas) will seal the deal! And you can always wrap up the night with delicious turrón (nougat confection) and polvorones (soft, crumbly shortbread with powdered sugar).

The must-try Christmas treat, the crumbly polvorones

Dine in a volcanic wonderland

Now, that you know all about the Nochebuena and the Navidad Isleña program, let’s combine sightseeing with festivities in Lanzarote at Christmas.

So, how about having a Christmas dinner in a volcanic cave transformed into an elegant dining venue by artist César Manrique? Visit Jameos del Agua situated on the northern coast of Lanzarote (municipality of Haría) to savor your holiday meal surrounded by nature's own Christmas decorations – it's an experience that'll rock your world!

Tip: Christmas is probably the most magical time of the year but it is also one of the busiest in Lanzarote so make sure to book your table in advance.

The serene blue pool nestled within Lanzarote’s volcanic cave

Ring in the New Year, Lanzarote style

When the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, join the locals in the quirky tradition of eating 12 grapes, one for each chime and month of the coming year.

It's said to bring good luck and let's face it, trying to eat grapes that fast is bound to start your year with a laugh.

So, what are you waiting for? Swap your snow boots for flip-flops and your eggnog for sangria and explore Lanzarote at Christmas!

Visit Lanzarote's Christmas markets

Lanzarote hosts various Christmas markets where you can shop for handmade crafts, local products, and traditional decorations. These markets are particularly magical during the holiday season and it’s the perfect opportunity to experience local culture.

For the absolute festive market madness, you should visit the Teguise flea market on a Sunday! Open from 09:00 to 14:00, it's your one-stop shop for unique gifts, from handmade goodies to traditional Canarian crafts.

And who knows? While exploring Lanzarote at Christmas, you might just come across the perfect ornament to bring home as a reminder of your sun-soaked holidays in the Canary Islands!

Discover Lanzarote’s nativity scenes (Beléns)

Christmas in Lanzarote is all about the Beléns, the nativity scenes spreading throughout the island. So, grab a drink and stroll around Arrecife to spot the nativity scenes waving back to you in every corner!

During Christmas, you can see different versions of the nativity scene adding a charming touch to the festive atmosphere, inviting you to admire the craftsmanship of the handmade wooden figures on display.

A beautifully crafted nativity scene in the heart of Lanzarote

Watch the Three Kings parade

Leaving the nativity scenes and Nochebuena behind, we also say “Move over, Santa!” Why? Because in Lanzarote, it's all about the Three Kings. 

The Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes) is a huge celebration that takes place in various locations around the island of Lanzarote on the 5th of January reenacting the kings traveling to Bethlehem.

So, if you want to witness Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar riding their camels, do not miss the Cabalgata de Reyes.

While there, look out to buy the traditional Christmas treat, Roscón de Reyes cakes hiding a surprise inside. Choose your piece carefully because if you get the king you wear the hat but if you get the bean, you pay for the cake! 👑

Tip: don't miss the charming Christmas post office in Arrecife where children send their magical letters to the Three Kings.

The Three Kings parade, Arrecife’s festive finale!

As you imagine unwrapping your Christmas presents, let’s wrap this up! Whether you're relaxing on sun-soaked beaches or immersing yourself in local festivities, Lanzarote is the place to be for your Christmas holidays in 2024.

Check out all about the best ways to get to this enchanting island by checking out our guide on how to get to Lanzarote and book your ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper.

Tip: if you're looking to make the most of your holiday season, explore our top picks for festive fun in the sun in our guide for the best Christmas holidays in the Canary Islands!