Main title of the Post
Whether you live in this beautiful part of the world or are just looking for some cheering winter sun over the festive period, Marbella is a fabulous place to visit for Christmas. There’s so much to do and see, as well as eat and drink, there barely seems enough time to fit it all in before it’s over.
With the Christmas lights switched on throughout the land, now is the time to make the most of the holiday season in Marbella. The micro-climate in this part of Spain’s Mediterranean coast ensures an average temperature of a very pleasant 17 degrees, so if you have a winter coat, you’re unlikely to need it for much of the season. There are a host of activities organised both privately and by the local town halls of each municipality, however, we have some suggestions to help you enjoy the yuletide season in style.
Shopping & Seasonal Treats
For many, Christmas shopping is one of the pleasures of the run-up to the big day itself and Marbella does not disappoint. El Corte Ingles dons its finery for the festivities and is the perfect place to seek out the ideal gift, as well as the ideal Christmas party outfit, with a wide range of exclusive brands for young and old alike. Or take a walk into nearby Puerto Banús marina to browse the designer boutiques that overlook the luxury yachts berthed here and enjoy a festive harbour atmosphere.
Marbella Old Town puts on a wonderful show, bedecked with twinkling fairy lights and the traditional Belén, or Nativity Scene, in the Plaza de la Alameda. It’s also a good place to look for unique presents, with a wide range of chic boutiques and quirky gift shops arranged along its cobbled streets.
As with most cultures, Spain has its own Christmas sweet treats, one of the most popular being turrón. A type of nougat, it can be found in a mouth-watering range of flavours to tempt the tastebuds, while small round polvorones are a type of heavier shortbread made with nuts, predominantly almonds. The name for the biscuits is derived from the Spanish for dust or powder, and its crumbly texture on eating explains why.
Christmas Eve is an important day in Spain, with Father Christmas on the 25th December a relatively recent arrival. The 24th December is a day usually spent feasting with family, with traditional dishes including prawns and seafood as well as roast lamb and pork.
What To Do
Christmas celebrations organised by local town halls include Father Christmas ‘pasacalles’ or street parades, as well as Zambombas, an Andalusian celebration with flamenco Christmas carols sung to the accompaniment of traditional instruments.Christmas lights have become a spectacular show, with more being added every year. The biggest spectacle is in Málaga, however, where the whole of the central pedestrian area Calle Larios is festooned with stunning decorations, with a breathtaking light and sound show that takes place at 7, 8:30 and 10 pm every evening and is well worth the trip to see it.
Marbella is a wonderful place to live or visit at any time of the year. We are local property experts and would love to help you find your ideal home in this lovely part of the world. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
