Discover the enchanting beauty of Málaga's Christmas Lights as the Spanish city transforms into a illuminated wonderland with dazzling displays and twinkling lights. Get all the details, schedules, and times to enjoy the spectacle!
By Liza S. | Updated 29 Nov 2024 | Málaga | Events |
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Malaga Christmas Lights
Last year, the festive switch-on took place on Friday, 24 November 2023 at Plaza De La Constitucion, and lasted until 6 January 2024.
The Malaga Christmas Lights 2024 is scheduled to be switched on on Friday, 29 November 2024, at 6.30pm.
As in previous editions, this festive event will see the streets, plazas, and roundabouts in Malaga city as well as its iconic monuments illuminated by brilliant LED lights. The lights are switched on every day at 6.30pm. They will be switched off at midnight on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday, as an energy-saving measure, but will remain switched on until 2.00am on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and the eve of holidays. On the 24th and 31st December, they will be on until 6:00am.
The Malaga Christmas Lights 2024 will be up until 4 January 2025.
Step into a world of enchantment and joy as the dazzling Málaga Christmas lights transform this beautiful Spanish city into a winter wonderland. The holiday season is truly a magical time in Málaga, where locals and visitors alike gather to witness the mesmerizing display of lights that illuminate the streets, casting a warm glow and filling the air with an undeniable sense of festive cheer.
As December unfolds, Málaga comes alive with an array of stunning light installations, captivating everyone who sets foot in the city. The streets are adorned with an array of vibrant colours, creating a delightful symphony of twinkling lights, sparkling decorations, and breathtaking designs that capture the essence of the holiday spirit.
The centerpiece of this extraordinary spectacle can be found at Calle Larios, the main street of Málaga. In 2024, the lights and decorations along this central pedestrianised street will keep the the beloved theme of “Heavenly Angels”.
As you stroll down this magnificent street, you'll be surrounded by an atmosphere of joy, wonder, and togetherness, as families, friends, and strangers come together to immerse themselves in the magic of the season.
Be sure to also check out the cross streets of Calle Larios and the streets of Molina Lario which will be lighted up with three-dimensional chandeliers.
Calle Larios also serves as the canvas for a truly extraordinary light show that leaves onlookers in awe. The lights dance to the rhythm of joyful music, creating a harmonious experience that's bound to fill your heart with happiness.
The spectacular light and sound show in Calle Larios is scheduled to begin on 30th November and will take place three times a day, at 6.30pm, 8.00pm and 10.00pm (except on 24th and 31st December).
And what’s a Christmas light show without music? You’ll bop along to festive classics and instrumental music. On the 2023 playlist were We wish you a Merry Christmas, Carol of the Bells by Pentatonix, Navidad Épica and Hacía Belén van una Burra, and (of course) Jingle Bells by the Johann Strauss Orchestra.
For the first time, in 2023, we also got a taste of traditional Malagan music when verdiales (a typical flamenco style of music from the province of Malaga) was played. This returns in 2024 and you can enjoy this traditional music on the 23th, 25th, 26th, 27th and 28th December 2024.
The spectacular video mapping at Malaga Cathedral returns in 2024, with the theme 'Mantle of Stars'.
The video mapping will be live from 1 December 2024 to 4 January 2025 (except 24th and 31st December). There are 3 shows daily at 7.00pm, 8.30pm and 10.00pm, with the show lasting 8 minutes.
The drone and light shows that were introduced in 2022 were hugely popular and they were visible from different parts of the city, including the Palmeral de las Sorpresas, Plaza de la Marina, Muelle Uno and Gibralfaro.
Unfortunately, this display does not return in 2024.
There may be no drone display but there's no need to be disappointed as there are some exciting new additions for 2024!
Calle San Juan has undergone a festive transformation with three new, dazzling zones: Salón Chandelier, a baroque-inspired dreamscape; Thai Sky, featuring handmade Thai lanterns lit by rustic Edison bulbs; and The Magic Cave, where sparkling stalactite-style lights create a magical, cave-like vibe.
For the first time, Paseo del Parque will light up its trees and showcase seven arches along the boulevard. Adding to the magic, a continuous projection will light up the City Hall façade, blending traditional holiday motifs like stars, bells, and candies with a 3D finale that uses the building’s stunning architecture for a show-stopping effect.
It's not just Calle Larios that captivates the senses during Christmas in Malaga.
Throughout the city, you'll discover a treasure trove of illuminated displays that showcase the creativity and artistic talent of the local community. Historic buildings, plazas, and parks are transformed into dazzling spectacles, with intricate light installations that tell stories of tradition, love, and the joy of giving.
Once again, Alameda Principal will be transformed into a “enchanted forest” with an interlaced system of lights that decorate the ficus trees.
Other key decoration points in the city centre were luminous figures of the Three Wise Men in the Alcazaba tunnel, trees with trumpets in Calle Echegaray, Christmas balls in Plaza del Carbón and a decorative tree in Plaza Jerónimo Cuervo, next to the Cervantes Theatre.
As you wander through the streets of Malaga Old Town, take a moment to savour the delicious aromas of traditional Spanish treats that waft through the air. Street vendors offer mouthwatering churros and hot chocolate, providing the perfect companion to your evening of exploration and wonder.
The combination of delightful flavours, stunning visuals, and the laughter of children creates an ambiance that's truly unforgettable.
In addition to the lights, there are traditionally five Christmas trees to look out for: on Plaza de la Marina, Plaza de la Constitución (here you can go “inside” the tree), Plaza del Obispo (this tree looks magical at night next to the illuminated Cathedral façade), Plaza de Enrique García Herrera (on the square to the west of Calle San Juan) and in Huelin Park, lighting up the lake.
It is not just the kids that enjoy the Christmas Nativity scenes or Belen. There are typically over 60 in Málaga city and the tourist office has a map of all the locations.
Some of the most elaborate and favourite Belen are at:
Opening times may vary so it's best to get the latest map and information from the tourist office.
And let's not forget the Christmas markets in Málaga!
Paseo de Parque has lots of stalls, open from 12.00 noon until 8.00pm right through the Christmas period.
Muelle Uno Arts and Crafts Market, on the port side, is well worth a visit for that unusual present. It is typically open every Sunday in December 11.00am to 6.00pm.
Muelle Uno Christmas market is on the square in front of the Pompidou Centre is usually open from 10.00am to 6.00pm until 10th January.
In 2023, Malaga’s La Concepcion hosted a Christmas show as part of the city’s festivities.
The good news: there is a new show in 2024 titled "Illusion. Christmas has many faces but only one heart".
With lights, sounds, sculptures, and decorations, the Malaga’s Botanic Gardens will transformed into a show designed to enthrall all ages.
This is a paid event and tickets are already available on the official website.
This year's festivities adds a new Asian twist: Malaga is introducing a Lantern Festival inspired by Chinese New Year. This festival will coincide with the start of the festive season in the city and add something new for locals and visitors to enjoy.
The event will celebrate facets of Chinese culture such as a Chinese New Year Parade, lantern-making, calligraphy, traditional music and dance, and more. Visitors can also admire feature over 600 lanterns and 4,000 points of light decorating the park.
The Lantern Festival is a paid event and will be held in the central part of the West Park from 30 November 2024 to 15 February 2025. You can get tickets on their website: festivaldelaslinternasmalaga.es/.
Málaga's Christmas Lights have become a beloved tradition, drawing visitors from far and wide who yearn to experience the magic firsthand.
It's an opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones and indulge in the joyous spirit of the season. Whether you're gazing at the mesmerising light displays, participating in festive activities, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Málaga Christmas Lights will transport you to a world where dreams come true and the joy of the holidays is celebrated with open arms.
The Málaga Christmas lights are more than just a visual spectacle; they represent a time of celebration and unity. Families and friends gather to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, filling the air with laughter and joy. It's a time when locals and tourists alike can forget about the worries of the world and immerse themselves in the magic of the holiday season.
So mark your calendars, plan your trip, and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Málaga's Christmas Lights 2024. Prepare to be spellbound, as the city embraces the holiday season with open hearts and a radiant display of lights that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.Málaga is waiting to welcome you into its warm embrace, inviting you to experience the true magic of Christmas!
If you're looking for a guided experience of the Malaga Christmas Light Show or want to visit the city on a day trip to enjoy the spectacular lights and festive atmosphere, here are some options for you.
While you're in Málaga to experience Christmas, don't forget to check out the city's main attractions. Here are our top recommended activities and tours:
Read our guide to Malaga and our article on visiting Malaga in winter to help plan your visit.
You may also be interested in our full article on the best things to do in Malaga.
For more on Malaga, check out our other articles:
December in Malaga is a busy period as many travellers descend to the city to enjoy the mild winter and experience the city’s festive period. So don’t be surprised if hotel prices are higher than you expect. That said, you can still find some good deals.
If you’re planning to visit during this time, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodations in advance!
Here are some hotels to consider:
For more, check out our guide on where to stay in Malaga which includes a neighbourhood guide and more hotel recommendations.
Or check out the latest deals in Malaga below.
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