Experience the Magic of Christmas: Markets, Lights, and Giving Back

Each December, the holiday season brings a festive transformation, with charming Christmas markets, dazzling light displays, and heartwarming charity events. Whether you’re in the mood to shop for unique holiday gifts, take in the beautiful seasonal illuminations, or join charity events that celebrate the spirit of giving, there’s something special for everyone. Don’t forget to add these events to your calendar as we explore the best holiday highlights, from bustling markets and joyful street decorations to meaningful celebrations that capture the true magic of Christmas.

Christmas Lights

Don’t miss the Christmas lights switch-on in Marbella, Málaga, San Pedro, Fuengirola, and Estepona! Each city will be filled with festive magic as the holiday lights illuminate the streets, creating a beautiful atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Join us for an unforgettable evening and get into the holiday spirit with music, decorations, and the enchanting glow of lights!

Marbella: Coming soon…

Malaga: Friday 29th of November at 18:30

San Pedro de Alcantara: Coming soon…

Estepona: Coming soon…

Fuengirola: Coming soon…

Christmas Markets: 

• Estepona – Discover Festive Magic at Kempinski’s Hotel Christmas Market: The much-anticipated Christmas Market at Kempinski Hotel Bahía is finally here! On 30th November, join the festivities as Kempinski officially kicks off the holiday season in Estepona. The annual tree lighting ceremony, led by Mr. Pursche, General Manager, and attended by the Kempinski team and visitors, marks the start of Christmas magic. The Mayor of Estepona, José María García Urbano, hails this event as “When Christmas officially begins in Estepona.
• Málaga – Christmas Market at Plaza de la Marina: Located in the heart of Malaga, this market is one of the busiest in the city. From early December until the Day of Kings, Plaza de la Marina fills with small stalls where you can find everything from Christmas decorations and artisanal products to typical sweets of the season like nougat, polvorones, or mantecados.
• Málaga – Christmas Market at Muelle Uno: The Christmas market at Muelle Uno is one of the most modern and attractive in the city. Located by the port, this market offers a unique experience as it combines the most traditional Christmas atmosphere with sea views.
• Málaga – Christmas Market at El Parque de Malaga: This market is one of the oldest in the city. Located in El Parque de Malaga, it becomes a walk surrounded by lights, Christmas music, and atmosphere where you can find everything from handcrafted toys to figurines for the Nativity Scene.
• Málaga – Christmas Market at El Corte Inglés: Located around the famous shopping center El Corte Inglés on Avenida de Andalucía, this market is characterized by offering a wide range of Christmas products. Additionally, the market often features attractions and activities for the little ones, making it a perfect space for family enjoyment.
• Marbella – The Christmas Bazaar at Palacio de Congresos: Join Caritas Marbella for their much-anticipated Christmas Bazaar from December 12th to 15th at the Marbella Congress Palace. This festive event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, offering unique gifts, delicious treats, and a warm community atmosphere, all in support of a wonderful cause. Don’t miss the chance to find something special and share in the holiday spirit with them!
• Benalmádena –  Christmas Market: Located in Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena. This market not only offers a wide variety of stalls but also includes children’s activities, making it a festive experience for the whole family. You can visit it as often as you like on Avenida de la Constitución, in front of the Casa de la Cultura, from December 5th to January 6th, open daily from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
• Fuengirola – Christmas Market: Located in Plaza de la Constitución, the Fuengirola Christmas Market is a fantastic spot to spend your afternoons strolling through the various stalls. Here, you’ll find everything from nativity figurines and toys to sweets and nougat—everything you need to get into the holiday spirit. The market is open from December 1st to December 15th, with hours from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Charity Events

Christmas Gala Dinner at Villa Padierna Palace: Jingle Bells and All That Jazz Friday – Friday 13th of December 2024 

The evening will feature a three-course gourmet dinner paired with fine wine, all while enjoying live jazz music from the talented Smokey Sounds Project. As you indulge in a delicious meal, you’ll also have the opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause through an exciting raffle and auction.

• Time: 19:00 to 23:00
• Dress Code: Christmas Chic
• Tickets: €150 per person (€100 for dinner + €50 donation)
• Reservations: Pre-paid tickets only via +34 711 006 961

Candy Cane Xmas Gala at El Oceno Beach Hotel, Restaurant & Spa – Thursday 12th of December 2024

The event will feauture the talended team from Ballon Man Spain, all for a great cause. Over the past three years, this event has been a sell-out, so make sure to get your ticket ASAP! This year, we’re supporting Avoi, a charity that helps children and families affected by cancer. Let’s make it another unforgettable event a wonderful cause!

• Time: 19:00
• Dress Code: Christmas Chic
• Tickets: €65 per person
• Reservations: https://www.facebook.com/events/s/candy-cane-xmas-gala/1037221544787387/?rdid=qIlVowEsH3MTUp2R&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F17whe2JFjB%2F#

Hogan Stand for the annual Christmas lunch – Thursday 12th of December

Join them for a festive afternoon filled with music, joy, and holiday spirit! We’re thrilled to welcome back Karen Danzig and the Del Sol singers, who will enchant us with beautiful Christmas songs, and a special thanks goes to Brian Piccolo, whose performances bring joy to our residents and volunteers. Enjoy a delicious lunch, festive atmosphere, and wonderful company. With a raffle featuring fabulous prizes donated by our generous members and an exciting auction led by the wonderful Giles Brown, this promises to be an unforgettable event. Reserve your place now for a warm, joyful celebration!

• Time: 13:00
• Tickets: €35 per person
• Reservations: email lunches@ageconcernmarbella.com
• Charity page: https://ageconcernmarbella.com/

Thank you for joining us as we explored the festive heart of Marbella, from sparkling Christmas lights and heartwarming charity events to the charm of local holiday markets. There’s so much to enjoy in this sunny coastal town, where holiday cheer meets Mediterranean warmth. We hope this season fills you with joy, generosity, and the magic of giving back.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll dive into even more ways to celebrate and make the most of a Marbella Christmas. Until then, enjoy the sunshine, the festivities, and a holiday season like no other here on the Costa del Sol!