The holiday season has officially begun in the two Canary capitals, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which this year showcase enchanting, fairytale-like settings. With a varied program full of surprises, the two cities aim to make Christmas and New Year’s 2024-2025 a unique and unforgettable experience, blending tradition, innovation, and spectacle. Here’s what’s in store in the coming days.
In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the magic of Christmas can already be felt everywhere. The official lighting ceremony on November 28 marked the start of a series of events that will continue through January. Light and music shows, scheduled from Thursday to Sunday with two evening sessions (at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM), will transform iconic locations such as Plaza de Santa Ana, Las Canteras (La Puntilla), and Mesa y López (Plaza de España) into open-air theaters.
From December 5, the Christmas Market in the Santa Catalina area becomes a hub for those wanting to immerse themselves in a festive atmosphere. In addition to traditional stalls featuring handmade products and Christmas decorations, visitors will find an ice-skating rink, children’s workshops, and theatrical performances. Music lovers can enjoy live concerts, including the highly anticipated Los Gofiones concert on December 23, filling Plaza de Santa Ana with traditional Canary melodies, creating moments of great emotion and community spirit.
New Year’s Eve in Las Palmas also promises to be unforgettable. On the night of December 31, Plaza de la Música will host DJs, bands, and fireworks displays. Musical guests include Ray López, Línea DJ, Que Chimba, Banda Larga, and La Mekánica by Tamarindos. To end the night on a sweet note, warm churros will be available for purchase. For children, the Christmas season offers family-friendly cinema, storytellers, and many activities in public libraries, culminating in the Grand Three Kings Parade on January 5. This eagerly awaited event will fill the streets with colors, music, and magic.
In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Christmas is equally spectacular. With over 200 events planned, the city is ready to bring joy to both young and old. The Christmas Market in Alameda del Duque de Santa Elena, open from December 13 to January 6, will feature a selection of handmade products and decorations, while the Gastro Navidad Market Fest, starting December 14, will combine street food and live concerts in a lively and convivial atmosphere.
Music is a key highlight of Santa Cruz’s Christmas program. On December 22, Plaza de La Candelaria will host an uplifting gospel concert by the Municipal Band and the Powerhouse Gospel Choir, a must-see for fans of festive sounds. On December 27, the group Son 21 will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a special concert, followed by a performance by Los Cantadores on December 28, offering a dive into traditional Canary music.
December 31 will be an even more special and event-packed day. In the morning, Plaza de La Candelaria will host activities for children, games, and a mini New Year’s celebration at noon. In the evening, the same square will transform into the center of adult festivities with DJs, orchestras, and performances leading the city into 2025.
For sports enthusiasts, Santa Cruz has organized events like the San Salitre Swim on January 1, as well as activities such as the Trail Anaga Solidario and the Ciudad de Santa Cruz junior basketball tournament. Art and culture will also take center stage, with exhibitions, theatrical performances, and children’s workshops bringing libraries and other public spaces to life.
In both Las Palmas and Santa Cruz, Christmas is not just a holiday but an opportunity to experience the festive season differently, choosing the capitals over the typical southern island destinations. Here, amid traditions, shows, and innovation, the cities offer a rich and surprising experience, uniting people and creating beautiful memories.
If this year you’re considering an alternative to the usual beaches, we suggest an urban itinerary to experience the magic of Christmas—you won’t regret it!