Christmas Holidays in Madrid 2013-2014
Cava, grapes at midnight in Plaza del Sol, red bows in shop windows, artisanal markets…There are many traditions and customs repeated year after year during Christmas in Madrid. Even the never ending lines of people waiting to but their Christmas Lottery ticket has become something that without it Christmas wouldn’t be the same. Apart from keeping your fingers crossed hoping your lucky number comes out here are a few more suggestions for a memorable Christmas in Madrid.
Christmas Lights- This year, designers Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Hannibal Laguna, Purifacion Garcia and Angel Schlesser have collaborated in designing the Christmas Lights. If you want to see all the lit up streets the best way to do so is aboard the Navibus, a special Christmas bus service. Where: Gran Via usually has the more beautiful display as do the streets Goya, Princesa and Fuencarral. When: From the 29th of November to 6th of January, everyday from 6pm.
Christmas Markets and Fairs- There are many markets scattered around the city but the Christmas Market in Plaza Mayor is the best known, selling artisanal products, gifts and other typical Christmas gifts and decorations. Over the last few years crazy wigs and extravagant party hats have become must have items for any New Year’s Eve celebration. The best place to buy them is at the Fair in Plaza de la Santa Cruz.
Ciudad de los Niños- A place solely dedicated to celebrating Christmas with children. Theatre, concerts, ice rink, stories, invention fair and many other activities designed so that the children have a great time. Where: Conde Duque Cultural Centre When: Dates are yet to be confirmed Admission: Most activities are free.
Christmas Traditions- A guided visit of Madrid focused on Christmas. The tour takes in the emblematic sights of the city and highlights the Christmas traditions. Lasting for two hours it includes a tasting of typical Christmas sweets of Turron, sugar coated almonds and others. Where: Plaza Mayor When: Friday and Saturdays in December from 4pm. Price: €5.90.
San Silvestre Vallecana-One for runners and those who want to lose a few of those extra pounds put on over Christmas, the San Silvestre Vallecana is a classic during Christmas in Madrid. This year more than 40,000 people will participate in this 10km run through the streets of the capital. It fills up quick so get in early if you want to run in Madrid this Christmas. Where: From Concha Espina to Plaza de los Sagrados Corazones When: 31st December from 5:30pm.Price: €20
New Year’s Eve in Puerta del Sol- As we mentioned at the beginning, eating 12 grapes in Plaza del Sol on the stroke of midnight is something everyone should experience this Christmas in Madrid. If you want to bring in the new year with the rest of the Madrileños make sure you get in early to find your space. Where: Puerta del Sol When: 31st of December Admission: Free
