Christmas comes to Malaga as an enchanting spell that transforms the city into a magical setting full of sparkling lights, vibrant colours and festive events that capture the festive spirit. On these special dates, the city comes alive in a unique way, offering its inhabitants and visitors an unforgettable experience.

Malaga, known for its year-round charm, dresses up in its Christmas finery, illuminating every corner with the warmth of lights twinkling in the streets and squares. The festive atmosphere is in the air as the city immerses itself in celebration, making every step an opportunity to discover the magic of the season.

In this Christmas trip through Malaga, from Cambara Restaurant we invite you to explore not only the lights that adorn its streets, but also to immerse yourself in a series of events and activities that make this city unique during the Christmas season. From light shows to enchanting markets, Malaga offers a range of options for everyone from the youngest to the oldest to enjoy the magic of Christmas at its best - discover all that this enchanting city has to offer during the festive season and let the festive spirit envelop you at every turn!.

Christmas Light Show 2023 in Malaga: When and Where to Watch it

One of the most popular experiences in Malaga over the last few years is marvelling at the Christmas lights. In 2022 the lighting was composed of 16 celestial angels in single file along Calle Larios and 32 side columns, it is a real spectacle. Although for 2023 it has been announced that the lighting in Calle Larios will remain unchanged, there will be new lights in different parts of the city and in some districts of Malaga.

The heart of Malaga's city centre is adorned with beautiful Christmas lights, the most striking of which is the famous Calle Larios, decorated with thousands of LED lights that dance to the rhythm of Christmas music, making it one of the most beautiful illuminations in Andalusia. In recent years, Calle San Juan, near the area of the five balls, has also stood out for its elegant Christmas decorations with chandeliers.

When will the Christmas Lights 2023 be switched on in Malaga?

 The inauguration of the Christmas lights in Calle Larios in 2023 took place on Friday 24 November. As a result of energy saving measures and measures against light pollution, it had been contemplated in 2022 that the Christmas lighting period would be extended from 22 December 2023 to 6 January 2024, with night-time switch-offs to optimise energy consumption. Finally, the lights will be switched on for two hours less per day and will use LED technology, thus reducing electricity consumption.

During Christmas 2023, the lights will remain on from Monday to Friday from 18:30h to 00:00h, while on weekends and the eve of public holidays they were extended until 02:00h. On special dates such as 24 and 31 December, the light show was extended until 06:00h.

What time does the Christmas Lights 2023 show start in Malaga?

 Every day, the light and sound shows take place between 18:30h and 00:00h, extending until 02:00h on weekends and the eve of public holidays. These shows take place in three daily sessions: 19:00h, 20:30h and 22:00h.

How long does the Christmas Lights 2023 show in Malaga last?

 The duration of the light show in Malaga ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the songs performed, with an average of 2 to 3 minutes per song. During this dazzling show, you can enjoy Christmas classics such as «Carol of the Bells» by Libera Children Choir and «Jingle Bells» by Herd de Lord, among others.

Video mapping show in Málaga Cathedral

 A novelty that captivated the city at Christmas 2021 was the video mapping show at Malaga Cathedral. Through Christmas infographics, a show combining 3D projections with reality was projected onto the south tower of the Cathedral. For 2023, this event continues with daily shows at 19:00h, 20:30h and 22:00h, with a duration of approximately 10 minutes, except on 24 and 31 December.

New! Drone show Christmas in Malaga

From 3 December at 20:30h, get ready for a unique performance with 120 drones illuminating the areas of Muelle Uno, Gibralfaro and Plaza de la Marina, projected from the cruise terminal. These shows will take place on 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 23 December at 20:00h, with an additional performance on 9 December at 20:30h.

Christmas lights in the Botanical Garden

Inspired by the English style of the «Royal Botanic Gardens Kew in London» and the Christmas Garden of the Berlin Botanical Garden, Malaga has transformed the Botanical-Historical Garden of La Concepción into a circular route of almost 2 kilometres full of Christmas decorations. In 2023, the botanical garden hosts the Christmas show entitled «Angélical: The Kingdom of the Christmas Angels», which runs from 1 December to 7 January. Tickets are priced at €15.50 for adults and €11.50 for children.

Christmas Market 2023 in Malaga

Make the most of the Christmas season to shop at Malaga's charming Christmas markets. The Paseo del Parque Christmas market stands out as one of the most famous in the city. Also, near the port of Malaga, La Aldea de Nieve (Snow Village) on Muelle Uno offers a space with igloos and Santa's sleigh, providing special activities for the little ones.

In the province of Malaga, you will find Christmas markets in various locations such as Estepona, Marbella, Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Ronda, Alora, Antequera, Torrox, Velez-Malaga and Nerja. You can also enjoy outlet shopping with a Christmas atmosphere at McArthur Glen.

What to buy at the Christmas markets in Malaga?

These markets are ideal for finding unique Christmas gifts. From Christmas figurines, handicrafts and festive decorations to Malaga's gastronomic products and traditional sweets such as turrones, polvorones, mantecados and marzipan.

Where to find the 2023 Christmas trees in Malaga

The Christmas trees in Malaga are strategically located in four important areas of the historic centre:

Route of the Nativity Scenes in Malaga

Taking part in the «Route of the Nativity Scenes» is an unmissable Christmas tradition. With approximately 70 nativity scenes distributed throughout the city and province of Malaga, you can enjoy these touching Christmas representations. Some of the most outstanding nativity scenes include the Municipal Nativity Scene in Malaga Town Hall, the Nativity Scene in Malaga Cathedral, the Monumental Nativity Scene in Malaga Provincial Council, nativity scenes in different confraternities, the Nativity Scene of La Mosca, the Nativity Scene Museum in Mollina, the Living Nativity Scene in Almayate and the Nativity Scene in the church of San Cristobal in Ronda.

Other activities to enjoy in Malaga during the Christmas season

In addition to the activities mentioned above, there are other options to make the most of Christmas in Malaga:

• Deliver the letter to the Royal Postman for the Three Wise Men: In different parts of the city, the royal postmen await the little ones to receive their letters to the Three Wise Men from the East. An exciting tradition that anticipates the arrival of gifts on the night of 5 January.
• Christmas San Silvestre in Malaga: On the 30th of December, as a solidarity action, the classic San Silvestre race organised by the Real Club Mediterráneo takes place. This popular 10 km race through the city centre starts at the Paseo de la Farola.
• Christmas at the Cervantes and Echegaray Theatre in Malaga: During the Christmas season, both theatres offer a variety of plays for all audiences. The full programme is available on their respective websites.
• Activities for children at Christmas in Malaga: In addition to the aforementioned activities in the city centre, the younger ones have different spaces to enjoy, such as the skating rink in the Corte Inglés and the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos, where the most emblematic event of Christmas in Malaga, MIMA, takes place.

In short, Malaga presents itself as an exceptional destination to enjoy Christmas with warm weather and a wide variety of events and activities for all ages. Immerse yourself in the magic of these festivities and create unforgettable memories in the enchanting city of Malaga!

Photo credits: Málagaahoy.es