Tenerife is a locale with myriad facets. It is an island of splendid nature and enchanting towns that offer relaxation and excitement, enjoyment and tranquillity, exquisite cuisine and superb wines… Moreover, it is a region where Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm, providing all visitors with an unforgettable sensory experience. Thanks to its favourable climate, in this little paradise, one can indulge in a day at the beach and then, as the sun dips below the horizon, fully immerse themselves in the festive spirit that envelops its villages and cities.
Christmas in Santa Cruz de Tenerife /DR
The towns of Tenerife, stretching from north to south and east to west, already glisten with a display of illuminations and decorations that infuse every nook and cranny with ambience; Christmas carols resonate through the streets, and it is easy to encounter parrandas serenading shoppers in between their festive errands.
Strolling through the streets of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, to uncover the enchantment that awaits in its thoroughfares is an essential outing and a performance in itself. Embrace the brilliance of Plaza del Adelantado or Plaza del Príncipe, or venture north to explore a whimsical atmosphere in Puerto de la Cruz or La Orotava, or meander through the island’s southern region and the Golden Mile in Arona, all set to a backdrop of music.
The merriment found in the streets aligns with a diverse agenda of activities.
Festivities with a Canarian flair
Cuisine represents, alongside wonderful company, one of the fundamental elements of celebrating this festive season. Why not amaze your dining companions this year with high-quality local produce, such as wines with designation of origin, Canarian potatoes, Tenerife cheeses, or locally sourced fish and meats?
Christmas treats /DR
No celebration during this season would be complete without a touch of sweetness: pastries play a pivotal role on our island. During Christmas, Tenerife households indulge in trout, one of the most traditional festive confections, although a variety of other options are available.
Festivities and fantasy
Without a doubt, Christmas is the most eagerly awaited period of the year for the younger members of the family, who look forward to December’s arrival. Everyone is welcome to visit the PIT, the Children and Youth Park of Tenerife, which remains open until January 5 at the Fairgrounds. In a magical setting, fun and surprises intertwine with games, adventures, attractions, trampolines, and workshops, ensuring families enjoy a day filled with excitement.
Tenerife also hosts fairs that tour different regions of the island yearly, providing young people with thrilling attractions, accompanied by the enticing scent of cotton candy.
Nativity scene trail
Countless original nativity scenes can be explored throughout Tenerife. Among the most notable are those displayed at the CajaCanarias headquarters in the capital and the Cabildo, which this year evoke the rural charm of the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Belén. Other municipalities feature their own nativity scene routes, such as the La Laguna Nativity Scene Route, which showcases 37 creations celebrating the Christmas tradition through unique nativity vignettes. This event invites attendees to discover works crafted by local artisans, groups, and parishes, fusing creativity with traditional techniques.
Another highly recommended option is the La Orotava nativity scene route, which this year boasts 28 nativity displays located in residences, squares, and both public and private establishments.
Music: a festive classic
The Port of Santa Cruz transforms into the venue for one of the year’s most significant music events, the Extraordinary Christmas Concert by the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra (OST). Taking place on December 25 each year at the Los Llanos Dock, this event attracts numerous attendees who revel in classical music outdoors during a thrilling concert filled with surprises.
Christmas concert /DR
The cultural calendar also features other musical occasions such as ‘The Gospel Legend Tour’, on December 22 at the Tenerife Auditorium in Santa Cruz de Tenerife; or the performance by Tenerife artist St. Pedro, on December 28 at the Leal Theatre in San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
The first swim of the year! A notable tradition
We can bid farewell to 2024 by participating in the San Silvestre of San Cristóbal de La Laguna and subsequently joining the festivities in one of the many towns that celebrate the year’s end with fireworks, music, and dancing, such as those in Plaza de la Candelaria. Yet, Tenerife possesses a unique tradition that extends beyond merely invoking good fortune by consuming 12 grapes; it involves taking a dip on the first day of January.
First swim of the year in Tenerife /DR
Commencing the year by escaping the chill to bask in the sun, beach, and nature is possible thanks to the island’s consistently warm and pleasant temperatures, making it an event that no one wishes to overlook.
The Three Wise Men: a must-see event
The Car of the Three Wise Men of Tejina, depicting the scene of the Adoration of the Three Wise Men, is regarded as one of the most significant dramatic performances of Christmas theatre in the Canary Islands. It is noted that it has been continuously performed since the early 20th century, as reported by the Canary Islands News in 1905, which states that on the evening of January 5, the church choir of San Bartolomé de Tejina was overwhelmed by the multitude of local residents attending the performance.
Over the decades, this tradition, with its religious origins, has evolved into a more popular event, currently embodying a unique blend of religious and secular elements, although the text has remained consistent throughout the years.
And, of course, the evening of January 5 is an unmissable occasion for Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar. Each municipality organizes its own procession, where the Three Wise Men convey joy in a parade with numerous Christmas helpers. No matter where you are, from Garachico to Güímar, you will feel the enchantment of their royal appearances with their horseback riding and strolls through the streets. Relish the magic that Tenerife provides!
More information at:www.webtenerife.com/agenda/
