Here is an amazing list of things to do in Christmas in Tenerife!
Some dream of a white Christmas. Others dream of a warm and sunny winter getaway.
Blessed with the warmest weather in Europe, the Canary Islands/Spain are the place to go if you’re craving some winter sun.
Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Christmas in Tenerife is a great type of holiday that won’t make you miss the mulled wine and the traditional Christmas markets that Europe is famous for.
This sub-tropical destination, mostly known for its summer fun also comes to life during the winter holidays.
As a sun-lover, I really enjoyed spending my winter in Tenerife. I even went for a swim in February!
In fact, I would argue that winter is one of the best times to enjoy all the top things to do in Tenerife because the weather is ideal.
A balmy average temperature of 20°C, clear blue skies, lots of sunshine, and multiple events that ooze the Christmas spirit are just some of the reasons to spend the most wonderful time of the year on this idyllic island.
May this article help you as you travel Tenerife for Christmas!
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Psssst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Tenerife? Have a look at my other posts:
- Best Things to do in Tenerife in Winter
- Driving in Tenerife: A Practical Guide
- What is Tenerife famous for?
Table of Contents
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1. Celebrate Christmas the traditional Spanish way
In Tenerife, just like in the rest of Spain, Christmas is taken seriously and celebrated in the most traditional way. This important holiday is typically spent with the family.
Considering the year-round tourism on the island though, most restaurants and places are open during this time of the year.
Traditionally, Christmas in Tenerife starts with nochebuena, the Spanish word for Christmas Eve. Xmas in Tenerife is truly fun!
Celebrations start early in the evening and typically last well into the early hours of Christmas morning.
The first part of the night consists of a traditional feast made of delicious tapas, traditional soups and salads, and roast dishes of lamb, beef, or poultry.
After the meal, indulge yourself in some Spanish sweet delicacies such as mantecados, turrón, or polvorones – a variety of cakes, biscuits, and nougats that taste heavenly.
There are no gifts on Christmas Day morning, but don’t worry… you’ll still get some in January, as the Spanish tradition dictates. In order to communicate with the locals, you can have a glimpse at these typical Canarian expressions.
2. Spend Christmas on the beach
Christmas day, or Dia de Navidad, misses Christmas Eve’s glitz, but choosing Tenerife for Christmas comes with its own perks. You can spend the day at the beach, sunbathing or even swimming if the weather allows it.
With the average Tenerife Christmas temperature usually in the mid-20°C, enjoying a picnic on one of the exotic volcano sand beaches while admiring the immensity of the ocean can be rewarding and relaxing at the same time.
Las Gaviotas beach, located at a stone’s throw away from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is an excellent choice for both sunbathing and enjoying nature.
Nature lovers will also enjoy Los Gigantes beach. Nestled in the secluded resort of Santiago del Teide on the island’s western side, this place can blow you away with its incredible, uncontaminated nature.
READ: Things to do in Los Gigantes.
Giant cliff formations flanking the beach provide an awe-inspiring scenery for that Insta-worthy shot you’ve been dreaming of snapping.
El Socorro Beach in Los Realejos municipality is a true magnet for surfers who want to conquer the sea even during this time of the year.
The man-made Playa de las Americas is another fantastic beach to consider if you’re a sports fan. In summer, this place is packed with sunbeds and umbrellas.
In winter, it’s a popular place for people to enjoy all kinds of sports, from surfing to beach volleyball or basketball.
For a relaxing afternoon and a no-frills Christmas day, have a stroll along the Punta Larga beach promenade and stop in one of the many restaurants, shops, or ice cream parlors for a well-deserved break.
After a relaxing day at the beach, you can further unwind at one of the top spa hotels in Tenerife with a ocean view.
READ: The best Beaches in Tenerife
Check Tenerife Watersports Activities
3. Visit Christmas Markets
If your idea of a perfect Christmas has the word “markets” printed on it, then you’ll probably love to know that this place comes with its own Tenerife Christmas market.
Sure, you can forget about mulled wine and grilled sausages.
Ditch the warm winter clothing too, and get ready to enjoy one of the most amazing Canary Islands experiences, such as the Christmas markets in Puerto de la Cruz.
You won’t get hot beverages, but here you can still indulge in some locally-produced wine and cheese, have a taste of traditional baked goods, and shop unique souvenirs such as artisan jewelry, trinkets, or handmade gifts.
You can even find some gifts for outdoorsy people under $50.
Besides the stalls, the events are usually accompanied by traditional bands and street performances. Tenerife Christmas holidays aren’t complete without visiting a market!
If you can’t find what you are looking for at the markets, you can also enhance your Christmas shopping experience at the fantastic Siam Mall in the capital.
You can shop for clothes and the latest fashion items, take pictures with Santa, or listen to the carol singers who make their way around the shopping center.
Furthermore, the stunning circular shopping center Plaza del Duque in Costa Adeje is a great place to shop for gorgeous Christmas decorations.
There are many other wonderful things to do in Costa Adeje during this time of year.
It is also a great place to stay over the holidays, and there are tons of fantastic hotels in Costa Adeje.
4. Christmas Day on a boat
For an unforgettable Christmas holiday in Tenerife, forget the beach and enjoy the Canarian sun onboard a private yacht.
Perfect either for two or groups of friends looking to celebrate Christmas in style, private charter boats let you host onboard parties and sail wherever the mood takes you.
If you can’t afford the luxury of a private boat rental, a boat trip could be an excellent alternative that will still give you a glimpse of this original “Christmas Tenerife” adventure.
Perhaps the most fantastic experience is whale and dolphin watching while indulging yourself in a gourmet feast of fresh seafood and traditional Spanish Christmas specialties including the world-acclaimed paella.
Depending on your time and preference, you can typically pick from 3-hour and 6-hour tours.
Book your dolphin and whale watching tour in Tenerife here
5. Have a Christmas Dinner
If you’re wondering what to do in Tenerife for Christmas dinner, you’ll be delighted to know that most restaurants prepare traditional buffets or special meals for Christmas Day.
There are plenty of venues, but one of the best dinners can be tasted at Gulliver’s Grillhouse in San Miguel de Abona.
While it won’t serve you a traditional Christmas dinner in Tenerife, this restaurant stands out with delicious seafood dishes, amazing holiday roasts, and mouthwatering desserts, such as a heavenly Christmas pudding with rum sauce.
If you are wondering what to eat in Spain, this is a must-eat! It’s a typical Spanish Christmas food! It is something you should not miss on Christmas day in Tenerife.
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6. Enjoy a white Christmas at Teide
The Canary Islands at Christmas, are rather warm, and those who choose to spend their holidays in Tenerife at Christmas usually don’t dream of white expanses and snowmen.
However, if you find yourself craving a bit of winter chill and snow, a hike up the El Teide volcano is perfect for those who want to challenge themselves before the end of the year.
Not to say that this experience can show you a different side of Tenerife. It’s truly one of the best things to do in Tenerife in winter.
READ: Best Mount Teide Trips
Nestled in the middle of the island and overlooking the surroundings, El Teide becomes magic in winter when its rocky terrain transforms into a natural wonderland that attracts tourists and locals alike.
Various routes can take you to the summit, and once you’ve reached the top, you can enjoy a tour of the Teide Observatory, perhaps combined with nocturnal astronomical observations.
Did you know Tenerife boasts exceptional stargazing conditions thanks to the low light pollution? You can enjoy a stargazing experience at the Teide Observatory.
Here, you can also build snowmen, sleigh down the slopes, or enjoy a unique safari tour that takes you to the island’s most beautiful, undiscovered spots.
No matter your choice, Mount Teide is one of the top hikes in Tenerife and is undoubtedly a must on your Tenerife Christmas bucket list.
Book here your Mount Teide Trips
7. Attend a concert or a show
Canary’s Christmas holidays mean much more than bathing in the winter sun.
Tenerife is also known for its many cultural events during this time of the year, and you can attend many Christmas concerts and shows while here.
Perhaps the most significant event to attend is the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra concert held each year on December 25th at Santa Cruz Harbor.
Entry to this musical extravaganza is free, but you still have to ensure you snap a ticket from the venue’s official website.
Seats are limited, so make sure you’re fast at grabbing your spot to avoid disappointment.
The harbor also live-streams the concert on its website, so you can still enjoy this fantastic event if you miss out on the tickets or can’t go.
If concerts are not your thing, but you would like to enjoy a ballet performance, head to the Infanta Leonor Auditorium for beautiful representations of the Nutcracker or other operas.
Tenerife’s Adán Martín Auditorium in Santa Cruz de Tenerife also hosts occasional soul and gospel concerts, and throughout the island, you can also attend a variety of top-class shows.
All you have to do is decide which one you fancy.
READ: Things To Do in Santa Cruz, Tenerife
8. Visit Nativity Scenes
Despite the warm temperature in Tenerife at Christmas, nativity scenes on the island are as charming as those you can admire in continental Spain.
From early December onwards, most towns and villages display original nativity scenes that reflect the holiday spirit and bring together local communities, companies, and associations that create them.
One of the most traditional scenes is built every year by the Santa Cruz Council.
It’s so popular that locals and tourists flock to admire the hand-made figurines arranged on a typical Canarian landscape.
If you don’t mind a slightly colder temperature, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site La Laguna. Indeed, the center of this village impresses each year with six incredibly detailed nativity scenes.
Or, if you want to explore the less-touristy spots of the island, hop on a rental car and enjoy the nativity scenes in the characteristic towns and villages that dot this beautiful island.
While there, don’t forget to try some local wines and taste the typical Christmas pastries in each area so you can fully enjoy Christmas in the Canary spirit.
9. New Year’s Eve in Tenerife
Regarding the Christmas holidays, the Canary Islands don’t stop celebrating until the 6th of January.
In other words, spending New Year in Tenerife is a logical consequence of spending your Christmas holidays here.
You’d be surprised how many things there are to do in Tenerife during New Year’s Eve. Undoubtedly, the best way to celebrate the upcoming year is to do it as the locals do it, out in the main square, waiting for the twelve strokes of midnight.
You can also enjoy a New Year s eve dinner in Costa Adeje.
While most municipalities organize New Year events, it’s wise to consult the festival program for your destination to avoid disappointment.
Don’t forget to toss 12 grapes in your pocket to eat as the new year begins.
Lovebirds looking for a more private place to spend New Year’s Eve can enjoy the tranquility of the many beaches that surround the island.
Or have an unexpected picnic under the starry skies in the Mount Teide National Park.
If you are looking for a stylish New Year’s Eve, joining an exclusive party in one of the island’s discos and clubs is the greatest idea.
Venues such as the Papagayo Beach Club – one of the best nightclubs in Tenerife – typically organize unique events hosted by world-famous DJs.
Hotels and resorts throughout Tenerife also host New Year’s Eve galas for their guests.
This could be an excellent idea for families with younger kids, allowing you to sneak into your room whenever needed.
10. Reyes Magos in Tenerife
Early January on the island is as magic as December. After the New Year holidays, Tenerife now awaits Los Reyes Magos – literally the three kings, which can feel like a part of Tenerife Christmas events.
Spending the week after New Year on the island can give a whole new meaning to Christmas.
You’ll now understand the lack of a big belly guy squeezing down the chimneys on December 25th, as Spain’s version of Santa Claus is the traditional Tres Reyes.
The Kings allegedly visit all children on the evening of the 5th of January, bringing gifts and sweet treats.
Even if you’re not a child, you can still witness Melchor, Baltasar, and Gaspar making their original entry into the municipality.
It doesn’t even matter where you’re staying, as most towns and villages host parades and festivities during this celebration.
The 3 Kings Parade is known as la Cabalgata. However, if you plan to attend the most popular cabalgata, go to Los Cristianos in Tenerife South.
It’s not certain how the Kings will arrive, but I can say that they have made their entry from the sea in the past years and ridden on camels around Church Square or by helicopter.
The parade then goes through the entire town down to Casa del Mar, where they receive letters from children with their gift requests.
It’s one of the best things to do in Tenerife in January.
The municipality of Adeje is also known for its unique parades, and most towns on the island host similar events if you’re aiming for a less crowded experience.
11. Christmas Lights in La Laguna
In La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tenerife, the Christmas season brings enchanting displays of lights that gracefully adorn the historic streets and buildings.
As night falls, the city is bathed in a warm festive glow, turning its centuries-old architecture into a winter wonderland.
The carefully placed lights highlight architectural gems, decorate public spaces, and create a joyous atmosphere in the community.
The illumination ceremonies often coincide with cultural events, adding a touch of tradition and local flair to the holiday celebrations.
Visiting La Laguna in December, one of the Christmas Events in Tenerife, offers a magical experience, blending the charm of its historical heritage with the season’s festive spirit.
12. Attend the Midnight Mass in Historic Churches
Participating in Midnight Mass at iconic historic churches like the Cathedral of La Laguna or the Basilica of Candelaria offers a deeply enriching Christmas experience in Tenerife.
It is an unmissable event during a traditional Spanish Christmas, and local families in Tenerife usually attend it religiously, year after year.
After the service, just wander around the streets and enjoy the El Baile del Niño festivities, where musicians play their instruments while the crowds celebrate the birth of the Child.
The resonant hymns, candlelit atmosphere, and the sense of community contribute to a profound connection with the essence of Christmas, making it one of the most memorable things to do in Tenerife in December.
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13. Hike Anaga Rural Park
Opting for a nature-centric experience?
One of the recommended things to do in Tenerife at Christmas is to hike in the scenic Anaga Rural Park.
The park, known for its lush landscapes and breathtaking vistas, offers a refreshing escape into the island’s natural beauty. It’s a beautiful place with green scenery and incredible views.
You can walk on the trails, surrounded by old trees and lovely landscapes.
Take in the fresh air and enjoy the calmness of nature.
To make it festive, bring some local snacks and have a picnic. It’s a simple and refreshing way to celebrate Christmas in the natural beauty of Tenerife.
14. Watch Fireworks in Puerto de la Cruz
Celebrate your Christmas and last day of December in Tenerife by watching a dazzling display of fireworks.
The fireworks in Puerto de la Cruz transform the waterfront into a vibrant canvas of colors and lights. This annual spectacle is a highlight of the festive season, creating a magical and unforgettable atmosphere along the coastal area.
As the night sky is illuminated with bursts of brilliance, locals and visitors alike come together to witness the breathtaking show.
The reflection of the fireworks on the water adds an extra layer of enchantment, making it a picturesque and joyous way to usher in the Christmas festivities in Puerto de la Cruz.
Check Puerto de la Cruz Activities
15. Enjoy a Festive Boat Parade in Los Cristianos
Immerse yourself in the enchanting holiday atmosphere with the Festive Boat Parade in Los Cristianos. As Christmas approaches, the coastal waters of this vibrant town come alive with a captivating display of illuminated boats gracefully gliding along the shore.
Adorned with sparkling Christmas lights, these vessels create a magical spectacle that dances against the scenic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
The reflection of the festive lights on the water enhances the maritime charm, providing a unique and visually stunning experience.
Whether observed from the shoreline or as part of a festive cruise, the Boat Parade in Los Cristianos is a joyful celebration that perfectly captures the spirit of the season, offering a delightful and memorable experience for residents and visitors alike.
Information about the Weather in Tenerife at Christmas and December
Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Tenerife enjoys a sub-tropical climate with hot summers and warm winters. Therefore, the Tenerife weather during Christmas shouldn’t concern you. No need to pack fluffy sweaters or thick socks.
A light jacket and spring and summer clothes will make you forget about the harsh winter on the Old Continent.
That’s what makes Tenerife holidays at Christmas as magic as they are. It’s also one of the reasons why Tenerife is considered one of the best places for winter sun holidays in Spain.
Winter temperatures may vary between the south and north of the island, but you can still expect average temperatures around 20°C during daytime in all areas.
Temperatures in December and January in Tenerife South are usually higher, with an average of around 23-25°C during the daytime.
This makes it perfect weather to still enjoy all the fun things to do in South Tenerife even in winter.
Tenerife North is a bit chiller, but you can still expect an average of around 22°C. Read more about things to do in North Tenerife.
Nights are a bit chiller on both sides of the island, but a light jacket or cardigan will typically suffice.
Due to the mild year-round climate, winter in Tenerife usually means that you can spend your days at the beach or sunbathing. The ocean water is considerably cooler in the winter months compared to the summer, but you can always enjoy your hotel’s pool.
And why not plan a stay in some of the best all-inclusive, adults-only hotels in Tenerife?
Rain usually isn’t part of the picture, and snow is a very rare event in the Canary Islands. You should still pack a coat and umbrella, though. Just so you don’t leave anything to chance.
Summary
Tenerife at Christmas can be amazingly surprising. A place where you can enjoy traditional holidays alongside typical summer fun. Indeed, Tenerife in December is one of the best places to go if you’re wishing for a warm yet not overwhelming getaway.
From traditional Christmas dinners to Christmas markets with a twist, sunbathing on Christmas day or drifting away aboard your private boat, the Tenerife Christmas can melt even the toughest hearts and satisfy even the most demanding travelers.
Plenty of Outdoor Activities in Tenerife are awaiting you!
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your Christmas holidays to Tenerife this year and get ready to discover the magic of this place.
FAQs on Christmas in Tenerife
How is the weather in Tenerife in December?
In December, Tenerife typically experiences mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 23-25°C during the daytime.
What to do in Tenerife in December?
In December, you can enjoy various activities in Tenerife, including exploring festive Christmas markets, attending holiday concerts, hiking in the picturesque Anaga Rural Park, or witnessing the Christmas lights in historic La Laguna.
What are tips to celebrate Christmas holidays in Tenerife?
Celebrate Christmas in Tenerife by attending local festive events, exploring decorated historic areas, indulging in Canarian cuisine, and participating in outdoor activities, all while embracing cultural traditions and planning ahead for accommodations and activities.
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
To make the most of your trip, I recommend Lonely Planet Tenerife
Can’t get enough of spending Christmas in Tenerife? Check out our webstory.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
