Christmas in Madrid

Living Christmas in Madrid

Throughout the Christmas festivities, the city immerses itself in a magical explosion of bright colors. Streets, squares, and structures shine thanks to millions of light bulbs that adhere to rigorous sustainability and energy efficiency standards, providing brighter lighting without compromising consumption.

Madrid takes pride in hosting numerous festivities that beautify its streets and welcome visitors, but few manage to imbue as many areas of the city as the arrival of the Christmas season.

Madrid's Christmas Lights

Throughout these festivities, the city is enveloped in a wonderful burst of multicolored lights. From late November until Three Kings' Day, streets, squares, and buildings are illuminated with millions of lamps that meet the most rigorous sustainability and energy efficiency standards, providing brighter lighting while reducing consumption.

When are the Christmas lights turned on in Madrid in 2023?

They will be lit on Thursday, November 23, at 7:00 PM with an event at Puerta del Sol and will continue to illuminate until January 7.

Lighting schedule

• Sunday to Thursday: from 6:00 PM to midnight (except Thursday, November 24, from 7:00 PM)
• Fridays and Saturdays: from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
• December 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8: from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
• December 24 and January 5: from 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
• December 31: from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Madrid's Highlighted Christmas Markets

Christmas markets in Madrid are a festive tradition that transforms the city into a vibrant and festive setting during the holiday season. Throughout the main squares and streets, these markets offer a variety of handmade products, unique gifts, and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere while exploring stalls offering everything from handmade toys to typical seasonal gastronomic delights.

Plaza Mayor Market

In the heart of Madrid, Plaza Mayor comes to life with the Christmas spirit. With nearly a hundred stalls open from late November to December 31, this market offers star products such as Christmas ornaments and handmade nativity scene figures. In addition, the nearby plazas of Santa Cruz and de la Provincia add a dozen stalls specializing in joke items and costumes, completing the unique experience of this market.

Enchanted Market

Immerse yourself in the magical world of Christmas at the Spring of Dreams, a theme park located in the Complutense Botanical Garden. With over 50,000 square meters, this market, supported by the renowned Enchanted Market, offers a unique Christmas experience. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this market, promising to be a dream in location and content.

La Navideña at Plaza de España

An unmissable event in Madrid, La Navideña returns to Plaza de España with a combination of a market, a 450-square-meter ice rink, and delicious gastronomy. With 40 craft and product stalls, a varied gastronomic offer, an indoor restaurant, and cultural performances, this event takes place from November 23 to January 7. With the close presence of the famous Christmas Ball.

El Mercado del Gato

As a reference in the city's itinerant markets, El Mercado del Gato presents its Christmas edition in two consecutive locations: first at the Westin Palace (from December 1 to 10) and then at the Centro de los Ejércitos on Gran Vía (from December 15 to January 5). With over 50 exhibitors covering fashion, accessories, decoration, design, and gastronomy, this market offers a wide range of options for everyone, from colorful fabrics to trendy jewelry, including options for men and a collection for the little ones.

What to See in Madrid at Christmas

Madrid transforms into a welcoming city, a feast of lights, and charming activities. Don't miss:

• Christmas Markets: As mentioned before, visit Plaza Mayor, Plaza de España, and events like La Navideña to find unique gifts and feel the festive magic.
• Christmas Lighting: Enjoy the spectacular lights decorating streets like Gran Vía and Puerta del Sol. A nighttime stroll is a must.
• Ice Rink in Plaza de Oriente: Experience the thrill of skating outdoors in a stunning setting in front of the Royal Palace.
• Christmas Shows: Attend concerts, plays, or themed Christmas performances to immerse yourself even more in the Christmas spirit.
• Traditional Nativity Scenes: Visit nativity scenes in iconic locations like the Royal Palace or the Almudena Cathedral.
• Christmas Gastronomy: Delight in Christmas specialties at the city's markets and restaurants.
• Three Kings Parade: On January 5th, the colorful parade travels through the streets, anticipating the arrival of the Three Wise Men.
• Festival of Light at the Botanical Garden: A magical event that combines lights, art, and nature.
• Naviluz: Take a ride on the Naviluz bus to admire Madrid's most iconic lights from the comfort of public transportation.

What to Eat in Madrid During the Christmas Season

In Madrid, during Christmas, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious dishes and seasonal specialties. Here are some recommendations for what to eat in Madrid during Christmas:

• Turrones and Mazapanes: These sweets are classics of Christmas in Spain. Turron is a block of almonds and honey, while marzipan is a paste of almonds and sugar. Both are traditional delights to enjoy during the festivities.
• Roscón de Reyes: This is a sweet bun in the shape of a ring that is eaten on the eve of Three Kings' Day (January 6th). It is often decorated with candied fruits and is frequently filled with whipped cream or custard.
• Roast Turkey or Lamb: Main meals during Christmas Eve dinner often include roasted meat, either turkey or lamb. These dishes are usually accompanied by side dishes like roasted potatoes and vegetables.
• Sopa de Galets: This is a soup typical of the Catalonia region, but it's common to find it in Madrid during Christmas celebrations. It is made with snail-shaped pasta called galets, filled with meat and vegetables, in a flavorful broth.
• Gambas a la Plancha: Grilled shrimp or prawns are a popular choice for celebrations. These tasty seafood can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a festive meal.
• Roast Suckling Pig (Cochinillo Asado): This is another classic Christmas dish in Madrid. Roast suckling pig is served with crispy skin and tender meat. It's a delicacy particularly cherished during Christmas celebrations.
• Roast Sea Bream (Besugo Asado): Sea bream is a fish commonly consumed during the Christmas festivities in Spain. It is oven-baked and served with side dishes such as potatoes and salads.
• Ponche Segoviano: This is a typical dessert from Segovia, but it's popular throughout Spain during Christmas. It is a cake filled with cream and covered with a layer of marzipan, glazed, and decorated with pine nuts.
• Churros with Hot Chocolate: Although churros with chocolate are popular throughout the year, they are a delicious option to enjoy during the cold December weather. You can find numerous chocolate shops in Madrid serving this delightful combination.

Madrid's gastronomic scene offers a wide variety of options to satisfy all tastes during Christmas, much of which is waiting for you to discover as you explore the restaurants and bars near squares and Christmas markets.