Christmas in Marbella
December 23rd 2014 | by Ginés GarcíaChristmas is a delightful time in Marbella – mild sunny afternoons, bright blue skies and cool crisp nights. All over town the sidewalk flowerbeds, roundabouts and hanging baskets are filled with bright red poinsettias and shop windows are adorned with decorations and festive cheer. At night the streets of Marbella are illuminated with brightly coloured Christmas lights, and homes, shops and restaurants are lit up with Christmas trees and nativity scenes.
Alameda Park in the centre of Marbella is a fabulously festive spot for all the family at night. The beautiful fountain is illuminated with every colour of the rainbow and the giant Christmas tree shines brightly. A beautiful crèche has been erected depicting the nativity scene, featuring unique figurines of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds and barnyard animals, and at night this illuminated religious frieze is a breathtaking sight, where children gaze open mouthed at the pretty display. In addition to the nativity scene, the park has its own Santa’s grotto, where children of all ages congregate to run, skate and play in this lively winter wonderland amid the palm trees.
Stroll around the cobbled streets of the old town and feel the warm jovial atmosphere pouring out of every café, bar and restaurant as festive music plays and the air is filled with the smell of sugar and spices. Enjoy shopping for trinkets and stocking fillers at the pretty little boutiques, where you can pick up anything from handmade wooden toys to perfumed soaps. Have a warming cup of hot chocolate with churros at any number of cafés on Marbella’s central Orange Square or perhaps an even more warming glass of calvados!
The many palm trees lining Marbella’s avenues are brightly illuminated with little white fairy lights, giving the whole town a magical, ethereal feel, whether you’re taking the whole family to visit Santa or simply enjoying a romantic moonlit stroll.
At this time of year, the town hall organises a great many events, from Christmas sing-alongs to festive shows, street parades, church bazaars and children’s Christmas card and wreath-making competitions. The events take place at a number of popular parks in both Marbella and San Pedro, as well as churches and main squares, and there will also be festive celebrations taking place at the Palacio de Congresos.
The most exciting and anticipated event though for most children in Spain occurs on the 5th of January, when the Three Kings finally arrive bearing Christmas gifts. Elaborate processions boasting ornate floats parade through the streets of Marbella to the sound of drums, loud music and great celebration. Adults and children alike adorn the floats, dressed up in costumes and face-paints as they dance and celebrate, passing through the streets throwing sweets into the crowds.
Barricades are erected throughout the town as locals pack the pavements, with children perched on shoulders carrying small bags and baskets to collect the flying sweets from the floats passing by. This is a night of sheer excitement and joy as people from all ages, backgrounds and walks of life congregate on the streets of Marbella to eat, drink, cheer and celebrate under the city’s shining lights – thus bringing a long festive season to a close as the new year begins.
Christmas in Marbella…
