Celebrate Christmas in Madrid
From strolling through illuminated streets to visiting Christmas markets and attending unique shows, Christmas in Madrid offers endless ways to enjoy the final days of the year with family or friends.
Christmas Lights in Madrid
Madrid shines every Christmas with over 240 illuminated spots lighting up Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza Mayor, among other iconic streets. This year, the Christmas lights in Madrid will be switched on on Saturday, 22 November, and will remain lit until 6 January, Epiphany.
Here are the Christmas lights schedules in Madrid:
- Sunday to Thursday: 18:00–midnight
- Friday and Saturday: 18:00–01:00
- 5, 6, 7, and 8 December: 18:00–01:00
- 24 December and 5 January: until 03:00
- 31 December: until 06:00
Christmas Markets in Madrid
During Christmas, Madrid fills with lively markets offering traditional sweets, decorations, gifts, and festive lights. One of the most emblematic markets is the Plaza Mayor Christmas Market, featuring over 100 stalls full of traditional products and festive decorations. If you’re looking for unique items, don’t miss the Artisan Market Fair, where craftsmen from across Spain showcase their unique creations. La Navideña at Plaza España not only offers a market but also an ice rink, perfect for fully enjoying the Christmas spirit.
Naviluz: the Madrid Christmas Bus
The Naviluz bus tours the most iconic streets of Madrid, all beautifully illuminated. It’s a comfortable and magical way to enjoy Christmas from the warmth of the bus, ideal for the whole family.
Christmas shows in Madrid
Madrid offers entertainment for every taste during Christmas with a variety of unmissable festive shows.
The Christmas Circo Price is the perfect family outing, with acrobatics, music, and magic. Cortylandia is a classic Madrid attraction that surprises each year with a new theme. This outdoor show, located at El Corte Inglés on Preciados Street, is ideal for children.
For classical music lovers, the Christmas Concert at the National Auditorium is a must-see. The orchestra performs traditional Christmas pieces that fill the air with festive cheer.
Try your luck in the Christmas Lottery
Every 22 December, Madrid becomes the epicentre of Spain’s most anticipated tradition: the Christmas Lottery draw. Ticket offices like Doña Manolita attract long queues of people hoping to win the famous “Gordo,” sharing hope and excitement with friends and family.
Ice skating rinks
Madrid turns into a winter wonderland with its outdoor ice rinks. Among the most popular are Cibeles, perfect for enjoying the festive atmosphere in the city centre; Matadero, with its artistic vibe; and Plaza España, ideal for families. Each rink offers a unique and magical experience under the festive lights.
Eat all the traditional Christmas dishes
Christmas cuisine in Madrid is a feast for the senses. During this season, locals enjoy traditional dishes like roast lamb and baked sea bream, which take centre stage at family dinners. And we can’t forget the sweets—after all, what would Christmas be without them? Nougat, marzipan, and polvorones fill tables with their sweet flavours and are essential in any festive dessert spread. Make sure to try them!
San Silvestre Vallecana Race
The San Silvestre Vallecana is one of the most anticipated events for locals and visitors alike, a way to bid farewell to the year with an adrenaline rush. Held every 31 December, this race has become the most popular athletic event in Spain. Participants of all ages and levels run 10 kilometres through Madrid’s streets, many dressed as Santa Claus, elves, or in other festive costumes.
Three Kings Parade
The Three Kings Parade in Madrid is one of the most magical events of the year. On the afternoon of 5 January, the streets fill with joy and excitement as the Three Kings parade from Paseo de la Castellana to the iconic Plaza de Cibeles. Floats decorated with lights and colours, festive music, and enchanting characters create a visual spectacle that captivates both children and adults.
Experience the best of Christmas in Madrid
If you’re planning a Christmas getaway to Madrid, there’s no better option than staying at chic&basic Dot. A hotel offering modern design, comfort, and a strategic location in the heart of Madrid’s Christmas celebrations.
From our boutique hotel in central Madrid, you can explore lights, markets, and shows just steps away, returning to a stylish and cosy space after a day full of magic.