Blog: December 2025
Christmas in Benidorm
Christmas in Benidorm has been a favorite for many years. The last month of the year is popular not only for the mild temperatures and abundant sunshine, but also for the Christmas atmosphere in the city, which is a reason for people to return every year.
On this page, we'd like to tell you what there is to do in Benidorm during the holidays. Are you excited after reading about all the Christmas activities and would you like to spend the holidays in Benidorm? Then inquire about apartment availability or view the options online.
Enjoy the Christmas decorations in the city
In many places in the city, you'll see the Christmas season approaching. Atmospheric Christmas lights adorn the streets, nativity scenes are set up in various locations, and the shop windows are beautifully decorated. The city council—along with accommodations, shops, and restaurants—is doing everything it can to get you in the festive spirit.
Walk to the old town during the day or in the evening when all the lights are on, or take the bus if walking is too far. Enjoy the Christmas lights in places like Calle Ruzafa, Calle Gambo, Passeig de la Carretera, and Plaza Triangular.
TIP: You can also take the hop-on-hop-off bus tour through Benidorm and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere at your leisure, hopping off wherever you like. Or inquire at reception about a guided bike tour. It's especially enjoyable in December!
(Christmas) Market in Parque de Elche
If you enjoy a lively market, we recommend a visit to Parque de Elche. Here, you can enjoy various stalls open most days in December from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Look for a nice souvenir or (Christmas) treats such as Turron, Mantecados, Marzepan, or Roscon de Reyes. Don't expect a Christmas market like in other big cities, but the market at Parque de Elche is always pleasant to stroll through.
Visit Santa Claus's House
A visit to Santa Claus's House is also a fun experience. The "Huerta de Colon" on Calle Tomàs Ortuño is always festively decorated during the Christmas season and is known as "Santa Claus's House." There are regular performances and special activities on weekends. You'll also find a beautiful nativity scene there.
Glide across the ice and enjoy the extra atmosphere at Plaza de Ayuntamiento
The square in front of the town hall (Plaza de SS MM los Reyes de España) is transformed into the "Plaza de la Navidad" from December 6th until the day of the Three Kings on January 6th. Here you'll find an ice rink where you can glide across the ice for €10 for an hour. Gloves are required, so don't forget to bring them. You can also rent them on-site.
Around the ice rink are various fairground attractions. Children can ride the merry-go-round and board the children's train. There are also several other attractions for all ages. There is also a stage where theater, dance, and song performances are regularly held.
The square is especially popular on the afternoon of December 24th and the afternoon of New Year's Eve. That's when you can enjoy the "tardeos" (traditional ice skating). Locals gather here for a friendly drink before visiting their families. There are live DJs, and you can enjoy various (Spanish) delicacies, such as paella, "patatas asadas," and delicious fresh churros.
The word "tardeo" comes from a combination of "tarde" and "tapeo," or tapas. "Tarde" literally means "afternoon," and "tapeo" refers to the Spanish tapas. By combining these two, the trendy Spanish term "tardeo" emerged, which essentially means: a convivial late-afternoon get-together with a snack and a drink. And that's exactly what many Spaniards come here to do on December 24th and 31st. You're welcome from around 2:00 PM.
Afterward, stroll to the "tapas alley," Calle de Santo Domingo, to continue enjoying the "tardeo." DJs also create a lively atmosphere in the small square at the end of the alley, near Plaza de la Constitución.
Nativity Scenes in Benidorm
The "Bélen" – or nativity scenes – are a staple of Christmas in Spain. Some are truly beautifully decorated. You'll find these "belenes" scattered throughout the city and they're free to visit. Often, there's a donation box where you can drop some change as a thank you. You'll also find a "Bélen" in the reception area of Benidorm Town Hall. Feel free to pop in when it's open!
San Silvestre Benidorm Christmas Run
Those who want to celebrate Christmas in style can register for the San Silvestre Christmas Run. This popular sporting event takes place on December 21st and starts at 10:00 AM. Registration is open until 30 minutes before the start. In recent years, the San Silvestre Run has become a true family affair. There are various distances and age categories to keep participation as accessible as possible. Many runners dress as Santa Claus, Christmas elves, or reindeer, which also makes the run a lot of fun to watch! The event takes place on the promenade near Levante Beach.
El Gordo
Tot slot nog “el Gordo”; misschien heeft u er al weleens over gehoord…. Midden in de zomer staan de Spanjaarden vaak al in de rij voor een lot voor “El Gordo de Navidad”, de belangrijkste loterij van het jaar. Jaarlijks wordt op 22 december deze grote kerstloterij met een gigantische prijzenpot georganiseerd. In 2024 bedroeg de prijzenpot meer dan 2,6 miljard euro, met de hoofdprijs (El Gordo) die goed was voor maar liefst 4 miljoen euro per volledig lot. Als u op 22 december hoort juigen, dan is de kans groot dat iemand in de buurt tot de prijswinnaars behoort!