As the winter holidays approach, Spain transforms—nowhere is this more enchanting than in its small towns and villages. Many become living illustrations of Christmas tales, where the air is filled with aromas of traditional pastries and the spirit of magic. Ancient streets shine with thousands of lights, and local customs come alive, creating a truly unique atmosphere. We invite you to explore the country’s most charming corners, where history and festive spirit merge, offering unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Live Nativities and Royal Parades
In the heart of the Madrid region, surrounded by ancient walls, lies the medieval town of Buitrago de Lozoya. Come December, it becomes nationally famous for its renowned ‘Living Nativity.’ This event, recognized as a regional tourism highlight, unfolds right in the streets of the historic center. The over one-kilometer route features 41 biblical scenes, performed by local residents and creating an extraordinary sense of immersion. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by Christmas markets and an open-air ice rink.
In the province of Ciudad Real lies Villanueva de los Infantes, where the Christmas tradition takes on a truly homely character. Here, a unique Nativity Scene Contest is held: residents open their homes to everyone to showcase their creations. This initiative attracts many visitors who appreciate handcrafted work and attention to detail. During this time, the streets are adorned with special lights, and the festive atmosphere is kept alive with music and fireworks.
The Cantabrian gem Santillana del Mar is renowned for one of the most significant Christmas events—the Three Kings Parade. This celebration, recognized as a National Tourist Interest, has been a tradition for more than half a century. Every year on January 5, decorated floats parade through the cobbled streets of the medieval town, accompanied by hundreds of participants in costume. This spectacular event, filled with music and children’s delight, turns the city into a magical epicenter on the eve of Epiphany.
The glow of lights and the charm of old times
In the province of León lies the town of Almanza, where Christmas is celebrated on a grand scale. As night falls, over 120,000 lights illuminate the historic center and its surroundings, transforming them into a dazzling wonderland. The festive spirit lingers until January, drawing families from across the region. Beyond its spectacular lights, Almanza is also famed for creating a giant gingerbread cookie—an exciting new tradition that has quickly become popular and cements its reputation as one of the top Christmas destinations.
Puebla de Sanabria in the province of Zamora undergoes a complete transformation in winter. Ranked among the most beautiful towns in Spain, it draws hundreds of visitors with its unique festive lighting. Medieval facades, the stone bridge, and the Tera River provide the perfect backdrop for evening strolls and photos. The glow of the lights is reflected in the water, doubling the magic of the moment. Local markets offer traditional winter delicacies, making a visit here even more delightful and flavorful.
The Rioja wine region also boasts a special Christmas treasure— the town of Laguardia. During the holiday season, its main attraction is a large mechanized nativity scene that draws both children and adults. The tradition of crafting nativity displays here blends seamlessly with the medieval charm of the town itself: fortified walls, narrow streets, and historic wine cellars create a unique atmosphere. This is the perfect place for those looking to combine festive celebrations with wine and gastronomic tourism.
Mountain landscapes and authentic traditions
In Navarra, the town of Lesaka offers a unique take on Christmas traditions. The central figure here is Olentzero, a legendary character from Basque and Navarrese culture, who delivers gifts on Christmas Eve. Every year on December 24, the town holds a contest of Olentzero figures, with the winner leading a festive parade. This deeply rooted tradition unites the entire community and showcases the region’s unique cultural heritage.
High in the Catalan Pyrenees, at over 1,400 meters above sea level, lies Bagergue—the highest village in the Aran Valley. In winter, its snow-covered landscapes transform it into a real Christmas postcard. The village exudes a calm, secluded atmosphere, far from the noise of major tourist centers. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a close connection to nature without giving up the festive coziness created by local decorations and traditional events.
The Galician town of Allariz has chosen an innovative and eco-friendly approach to holiday decorations. Since 2017, all the décor here has been made from recycled materials, achieving a stunning visual effect with minimal expense. Each year, new installations appear in the town: a miniature Christmas market, ice rinks, gnome figures, and an interactive walking map. It’s a wonderful destination for family holidays, offering a fresh take on Christmas traditions and showcasing the creativity of the local residents.
