Christmas celebrations in Benidorm

Christmas in Benidorm is celebrated in so many ways, there’s something for everyone. Whether you enjoy Christmas shopping or quality leisure options, or you simply want to relax, Benidorm has something for you. Ready to find out more?

What’s on at Christmas in Benidorm?

Practically anything you can think of! This post details everything the city has planned at this time of year and how the locals celebrate it. Enjoy!

The Christmas lights switch-on

The Christmas lights switch-on marks the start of the Christmas period in Benidorm. The epicentre of all these decorations is in what’s known as the Plaza de la Navidad (‘Christmas Square’), which is outside City Hall. On the 30th of November at 6.30pm, the event begins with the traditional announcement, musical acts and other performances by children. After these pieces, the famous switch-on takes place, turning this square into the “heart of Christmas”.

Nativity scenes and museums

Nativity scenes are another classic at this time of year. The province is home to a deep-rooted nativity scene tradition, for which reason the area’s different associations set up their own nativity scenes in various notable places. You can enjoy City Hall’s nativity scene, the ACRS la Barqueta’s traditional nativity scene, and the spectacular nativity scene at the ‘Casa de la Navidad’ in l’Hort de Colón. Of course, we should mention kids’ favourite choice: the Playmobil nativity scene! It’s amazing!

Here at Hotel Don Pancho we also have our own nativity scene in the hotel lobby. We hope you get to see it this year!

Christmas with kids

Children love Christmas time and Benidorm is the perfect city for them to enjoy it with wonderful shows, events, entertainment and workshops suitable for kids. Over the Christmas period, the square in front of City Hall is filled with attractions and inflatables where kids can jump around and have fun with their friends. That’s not to mention the famous ice rink you can enjoy as a family.

Shows and events

December is packed with shows and events around the city. For example, Benidorm Palace organises several shows and events to celebrate the occasion, such as traditional Christmas and New Year’s Eve gala dinners, an ABBA tribute, and a meal on Three Kings Day (6th of January). In the Plaza de Navidad you can also check out the Joyful Gospel Costablanca, flash mobs and numerous dance and musical performances.

Christmas shopping

In the Plaza de la Navidad and the area around it a Christmas market is set up at this time of year. Here, you can find all kinds of things, ranging from handcrafted decorations to food stalls and stands selling typical Christmas sweets. Of course, there are ‘turrones’ (a type of nougat-based sweet with different variations in its confection), ‘almendrados’ (almond cookies), sweets and chocolates, as well as other classics such as chestnut and churro stalls. Whether you are looking to enjoy traditional products or get started on your Christmas shopping, you’ll find quality products and original gifts to suit all recipients.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Benidorm

You need to get Christmas Eve off to a good start and the focus is on the streets in Benidorm’s old town on this date. At night, you can enjoy the “Great Christmas Eve”, organised by the Benidorm Committee for Major Celebrations in the Plaza de la Constitución. Furthermore, the city’s hotels and restaurants host various menus and gala dinners to celebrate it in style.

It’s the same for Christmas Day with traditional Christmas parties held in almost all hotels and event venues. Obviously we’re already finalising all the details of the Christmas Gala at Hotel Don Pancho!

The Three Kings’ Procession

On the 6th of January, Benidorm hosts a great procession in which the Three Kings, in their best dress and accompanied by their pages, tour the city’s streets before arriving at the Plaza de la Navidad. This is where a live nativity scene is prepared and the Three Kings give their gifts to the baby Jesus. If your visit to Benidorm coincides with this event, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy the magic of Christmas once again and all the excitement this time of year brings.

New Year’s Eve in Benidorm

For New Year’s Eve, it’s tradition to head out and eat 12 grapes (one at each bell strike at midnight) in the Plaza de la Navidad or the Plaza de Hispanidad, although part of the celebration is often transferred to Levante Beach. Alternatively, the city’s hotels prepare gala dinners or costume parties with a more informal set up. Whatever option you choose, the important thing is you don’t forget to eat your lucky grapes to get the New Year off to a good start!

If you would prefer to celebrate the start of 2020 with something different, you can try traditions such as the San Silvestre race or a mountain tour. Climbing up the Serra Gelada or up to the Benidorm Cross are the most popular options.

Personalise your Christmas in Benidorm

As you now know, you’ll find all the Christmas plans and activities you need in Benidorm. If you’re looking to enjoy a truly memorable Christmas this year, you can make your dream a reality here at Hotel Don Pancho with our attentive, professional team at your service. Ready? We hope to see you soon!