Celebrate Christmas in Granada: 10 Magical Activities You Should Not Miss
Granada becomes a magical destination during Christmas. The streets light up, markets offer festive treats, and the holiday spirit fills the entire city. If you are planning to visit Granada this Christmas, here is a list of must-do activities:
1. Stroll Through the Christmas Lights in the Historic Center
The streets of central Granada are illuminated with holiday decorations, especially on Calle Reyes Católicos, Gran Vía, and Plaza Bib-Rambla. Every year, the light displays are slightly different, combining colors and designs that capture the festive spirit.
Location: Central Granada (Calle Reyes Católicos, Gran Vía, Plaza Bib-Rambla).
2. Visit the Nativity Scene at Plaza del Carmen
In Plaza del Carmen, the City Hall sets up a large nativity scene that attracts locals and tourists alike. This display recreates the nativity with unique details and an authentic atmosphere, with figures that showcase Andalusian Christmas traditions.
Location: Plaza del Carmen, next to Granada’s City Hall.
3. Christmas Market at Plaza Bib-Rambla
This Christmas market is a classic in Granada. Here, you can find crafts, toys, holiday decorations, traditional sweets, and much more. It is a perfect spot to buy gifts or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Location: Plaza Bib-Rambla, Granada.
4. Music and Light Show at the Fountain of the Battles
One of the most magical moments in Granada at Christmas is the music and light show at the Fountain of the Battles. This show runs several times a day and combines carols and classical music with a spectacular light show on the water.
Location: Fountain of the Battles, near Calle Reyes Católicos.
5. Ice Skating at the Congress Palace
Each year, an outdoor ice-skating rink is set up on the Congress Palace’s esplanade. It is an ideal activity for families and friends, where both children and adults can enjoy a fun Christmas experience.
Location: Congress Palace of Granada, Paseo del Violón.
6. Nativity Scene Route Across Granada
Granada offers a nativity scene route in churches, cultural centers, and squares. This route allows visitors to experience the tradition of Granada’s nativity displays and appreciate the artistic craftsmanship and detail in these Christmas representations.
Location: Various locations (Plaza del Carmen, Granada Cathedral, Church of San Juan de Dios, among others).
7. Walk up to the San Nicolás Viewpoint to See the Alhambra
Although not exclusively a Christmas activity, the San Nicolás viewpoint has a special charm during this season. At sunset, with the Albaicín neighborhood’s Christmas lights and the Alhambra in the background, the view is spectacular.
Location: San Nicolás Viewpoint, Albaicín.
8. Christmas Concert at the Manuel de Falla Auditorium
Christmas concerts are held at the Manuel de Falla Auditorium, including carols and classical music performed by the City of Granada Orchestra. This is a perfect activity for enjoying music in a festive atmosphere.
Location: Manuel de Falla Auditorium, Paseo de los Mártires, s/n.
9. Taste Christmas Sweets at Granada’s Convents
Granada’s convents offer some of the best Christmas sweets in the city, including mantecados, alfajores, and polvorones. During the holidays, several convents open their doors to sell these handmade treats.
Location: San Antón Convent, Zafra Convent, and other convents in central Granada.
10. Three Kings Parade
On the evening of January 5th, the Three Kings parade makes its way through Granada’s main streets. Decorated floats and animated characters parade through the city while the Three Kings throw candy and greet children and families gathered to see the spectacle.
Location: Starts at Paseo de los Tristes and travels through various central streets to Plaza del Carmen.
