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The magic of the holiday atmosphere on the island of eternal spring

It's finally that special time of year when family traditions, holiday customs and a warm climate come together to create an extraordinary whole. Although there's no snow here, like in northern Europe, Tenerife has a unique atmosphere where you can combine joyful celebration with relaxation on the beach. It's true that the holidays look different here, but you can still build a snowman... only with sand!

Christmas traditions

December in Tenerife is above all a time for family gatherings. Canarians attach great importance to Christmas Eve ( La Nochebuena ), which is one of the most important moments of the year. On this evening, families gather at a common table, serving traditional dishes such as roasted pig ( cochinillo asado ), fish soups and desserts, including the classic turrón , which is nothing more than almond nougat.

Canarians attach great importance to the communal nature of the holidays. In smaller towns, residents organize parrandas , spontaneous groups singing carols in the streets. An interesting fact is that Christmas Eve dinner often ends with a late walk, during which residents visit local nativity scenes ( belénes ), which are prepared with extraordinary precision and with a regional accent.

Christmas Celebrations and Local Curiosities

From the beginning of December, the island lights up with thousands of lights, and Christmas markets are organized in the larger cities. In Santa Cruz or Puerto de la Cruz you can find unique handicrafts, local delicacies and decorations that reflect the Canarian character.

In larger cities such as Santa Cruz and La Laguna, outdoor Christmas concerts are organised. Of particular note is the concert of the symphony orchestra in Santa Cruz, which takes place outdoors on Christmas Eve and attracts thousands of spectators. Interestingly, Tenerife boasts one of the oldest Christmas traditions in Spain – the night march of the shepherds ( Misa del Gallo ), which takes place in many churches and is celebrated with traditional songs.

There is also no custom of giving presents on Christmas Eve on the island. Most families keep this tradition for Three Kings' Day ( El Día de los Reyes ), which falls on January 6. This is when the Three Kings' Processions ( Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos ), full of colorful costumes and carriages, appear on the streets of the larger cities. It is one of the most anticipated events, where local legends mingle with biblical stories.

Preparing for Christmas, Canarian style

December is also a time of great preparations. Homes are decorated not only with Christmas trees but also with local plants such as the poinsettia, also known as the poinsettia. Shops and restaurants entice with their Christmas decorations. Unlike the northern regions of Europe, in Tenerife you can still enjoy the sun and temperatures reaching 20-25°C during these preparations.

The Magic of Christmas in the Heart of the Atlantic

For many people, the holiday season is also a great opportunity to take a break from everyday life. The Anaga and Teide mountains offer peaceful walks, perfect for taking a break. In smaller towns, such as Garachico or La Orotava, holiday traditions take on a more intimate and authentic character, allowing you to feel the true spirit of the island.

If you dream of experiencing the Christmas magic of Tenerife on your own skin, we will be happy to help you find your dream property on this unique island. Activ Canarias Properties offers a wide range of houses and apartments that can become a place to live or to spend special moments with your family in a tropical climate. With us, the process of buying or renting is simple and pleasant - just one contact is enough to fulfill your dreams of your place on the island of eternal spring.

We invite you to discover Christmas Tenerife and start your own story on this magical island!

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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