November 29, 2024 
Reading time: 6 minutes If you’re planning to enjoy magical Christmas in Malaga and wonder how December is experienced in our charming province, you’re about to uncover a universe filled with festive experiences. From picturesque Christmas markets brimming with traditional crafts and local products to dazzling light shows illuminating the city, and year-end parties loaded with fun. Will you join the celebration?
Before delving into the exciting holiday activities awaiting you this month, let’s explore a bit more about the unique charm of December in Malaga. Ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit?
Weather in Malaga in December
December in Málaga is known for its mild and stable weather, allowing you to enjoy pleasant strolls without the worry of rain or cold. For those arriving from Europe or beyond Andalucía, a significant change awaits. While snow and cold have already settled in Europe, our province still offers sunny days.
The favourable weather encourages exploration of our beautiful province, although it’s worth noting that temperatures can vary considerably depending on the time of day and whether you find yourself in one of the charming inland villages.
Daylight hours
In December the day gets shorter, we are approaching the equator from which the day will start to gain ground. Sunrise is around 8:15 a.m. and sunset starts at 18:00 p.m. The approximate day length is 9 hours and 40 minutes.
From 25 December, the day will start to gain minutes and will continue in this way until the arrival of Midsummer’s Eve at the end of June.
Temperature in December
The average temperature is around 17ºC and minimum temperatures can reach 9ºC at night or in the early morning.
Rain in December?
December is generally not a rainy month in Malaga, with an average of 5 days of rain it is unlikely to spoil your plans. However, if you have decided to hire a car in Malaga with us, you will be able to go wherever you want even if it rains a few drops.
Going to the beach in December
Heading to the beach in December isn’t a top tourist draw and is unlikely to be high on the agenda for those contemplating a visit to Málaga during Christmas. The water temperature in December is chilly, averaging between 16ºC and 17.7ºC, making it a venture reserved for the bravest and surf enthusiasts. Nevertheless, it’s not uncommon for a few foreign residents to uphold their morning swim tradition.
If you fancy a stroll along the shore or the promenade, you won’t encounter any major obstacles. The promenade remains a vibrant spot where you can discover places to eat, have dinner, or enjoy a drink.
Christmas activities in Malaga
December is the perfect month to get to know the Christmas atmosphere in the province of Malaga. From street markets to Santa Claus villages, not forgetting special offers where to celebrate Christmas Eve dinner and New Year’s Eve, for those who prefer to go out.
In any of the municipalities you will find something to discover. We are going to recommend you some of the most popular Christmas activities in Malaga.
Christmas lights in Malaga
Every year the main street of Malaga is illuminated with a great show of lights and Christmas music. It is a unique occasion to see one of the best Christmas light shows in Europe and starts every year at the end of November in Malaga.
In 2024, the lighting of Calle Larios will take place on 29 November with the following timetable:
- 6:30 pm
- 8:00 pm
- 9:30 pm
This year, Málaga will feature over 2.7 million LED lights, including a new projection on the façade of the Ayuntamiento de Málaga and a “Manto de estrellas” (Star Mantle) projection on the Cathedral of Málaga. The Alameda Principal will also have a new enchanted forest design. Don’t miss the “Ángeles Celestiales” (Celestial Angels) show on Calle Larios, with three daily shows from 29 November to 4 January (except 24 and 31 December).
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Lin3hTLzxF3fvfws8
Christmas lights in the Botanical Garden
If you want to enjoy another great Christmas show, we recommend visiting the Christmas illumination at the Jardín Botánico Histórico La Concepción in Málaga. The 2.2-kilometre-long route will transport visitors to places around the different installations of the park, which is one of the most beautiful and important tropical gardens on the continent.
Tickets vary in price depending on the day:
- Standard tickets: Adults €15.50, Children (3-12 years) €11.50
- Reduced tickets (last session of each day, except peak days): Adults €11.50, Children €7.50
- Special discount days (2, 10, 25, and 30 December): 50% off regular prices
- Group tickets (10 or more people): 30% discount
- Reduced mobility tickets: 20% discount
Children under 36 months have free admission.
This year, the Christmas lights at the Botanical Garden will feature a new theme titled “Ilusión: la Navidad tiene muchas caras, pero un solo corazón.” The route will take visitors through seven magical worlds, including the Queen of Elves’ residence, the Polar Express station, the Grinch’s lair, and Santa’s House. There will also be new illuminated sculptures and a special “Candy Cloud” for children under 12 years old.
- Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vvfq8sX3yZjVwufX6
- Web and tickets: https://laslucesdelbotanicomalaga.com/
Christmas Markets
Another of the attractions of our province during the month of December are the traditional Christmas markets. It is definitely worth visiting one of them and losing yourself among the stalls to see what they have to offer. You will find everything from sausages and cheeses to churros with chocolate, toys, craft beers, Christmas decorations and other handicrafts; the location of the markets is usually also the place where you will find one of Santa Claus’ houses for the children to visit before 25th December.
The markets usually start between the first and second week of the month and some last until 5 January. The opening hours are usually from 11.30 a.m. to 9 p.m., although there may be variations.
The places where they are found each year are usually:
- Paseo del Parque: https://goo.gl/maps/Lin3hTLzxF3fvfws8
- Pier One: https://goo.gl/maps/Hb6NSYPdeNsQADhZA
- Torremolinos centre: https://goo.gl/maps/x5YjcicAYCYsoLUa7
- Botanical Garden of Estepona: https://goo.gl/maps/29WPjujJDCLxNYtB7
- Torrox, near bus station: https://goo.gl/maps/PAajtFStd9dCNxKF7
- Benalmádena and Arroyo de la Miel, next to the house of culture: https://goo.gl/maps/jzVZ7DsuxFk9mesL6
- Terrazas del Puerto Deportivo in Marbella, from 21 December to 5 January.
