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Mojacar – One of the Most Beautiful Places in Almeria during Christmas

Published December 8, 2025 | Category: Towns & Villages

TL;DR: Mojacar is one of the most beautiful places in Almeria, especially in December when its whitewashed old town transforms into a magical setting filled with festive lights, markets and winter charm.

Mojacar: One of the most beautiful places in Almeria

Mojacar becomes a shining stage each December, turning its iconic whitewashed streets into a gorgeous Christmas setting. The Levante town has discovered its extraordinary potential for winter tourism, welcoming crowds eager to enjoy its lights, traditions and warm festive spirit.

A key moment in this transformation came in 2022, when Mojacar competed in the national Ferrero Rocher campaign “Together We Shine Brighter”. Although it did not take the top prize, the spotlight helped redefine the way the town celebrates Christmas — turning illumination into a major attraction for both locals and visitors.

Today, the official switch-on ceremony in Plaza Nueva has become a must-see event. As sunset arrives, Mojacar suddenly lights up: arches of golden light, three-dimensional figures and elegant garlands highlight the Moorish layout of the old town, creating a truly magical night-time landscape.

Each year, the Christmas design grows more sophisticated, with new themed areas and viewpoints that invite people to wander through the historic centre. The effect is both visually spectacular and emotionally warm — perfect for evening strolls and festive photos.

The winter experience goes beyond lights alone. Markets with handmade products, children’s activities, live music and special guided tours extend the celebration throughout December. Local businesses also join the initiative, adding to the seasonal offer and helping Christmas become a valuable second peak season for Mojacar’s economy.


Explore more coastal treasures, beautiful towns and hidden gems in our Travel Tips section.

Events

Things to Do at Christmas in Mojacar: Lights, Markets & Family Fun

Published December 5, 2025 | Category: Events

TL;DR: Looking for things to do at Christmas in Mojacar? The town offers over 30 hotels open, festive lights, markets, flamenco and family-friendly events along the Almeria coast.

Things to Do at Christmas in Mojacar

There are many things to do at Christmas in Mojacar — from seaside sunsets to flamenco nights in the old town. One of the reasons this destination stands out in December is that more than 30 hotels remain open with around 10,000 beds available. If you are planning a festive getaway, our main guide to Christmas in Mojacar is a great starting point for background information and inspiration.

According to the tourism information published by the Town Hall on the official Mojacar website, the town keeps its tourism infrastructure active throughout the winter, so visitors can enjoy the holidays with the same comfort and services as in summer — just with more lights and fewer crowds.

Be There When the Lights Come On

One of the most popular things to do at Christmas in Mojacar is to be in town when the Christmas lights are switched on. The promenades, squares and old town streets fill with colour and sparkle, creating the perfect atmosphere for an evening walk. For dates and practical details, you can also check our dedicated update on the Mojacar Christmas Lights.

Enjoy the Christmas Market in the Old Town

From December 20, the hilltop old town hosts the Christmas Market, where you can taste traditional sweets, browse local crafts and listen to live music in a unique setting. Walking through the narrow streets decorated with lights, with views down to the Mediterranean, is one of the most atmospheric experiences of Christmas in Mojacar.

Experience Flamenco Christmas Nights

If you enjoy Andalusian culture, another essential thing to do at Christmas in Mojacar is to attend one of the flamenco events. On December 21, the first Gran Flamenco Zambomba brings guitars, clapping and Christmas carols to the town. On December 27, the group “Chanqueños pa’ Belén” continues the celebrations with more rhythm, music and local flavour.

Find Family-Friendly Christmas Activities

Families looking for kid-friendly Christmas activities in Mojacar will find plenty on the festive calendar. Disney characters will appear on selected days to meet children in the streets and squares. The Children’s New Year’s Eve offers a special countdown with sweet chimes, music and entertainment so that the youngest ones can celebrate the new year in their own way.

For a broader overview of what is happening across the festive period, you can browse our event roundup on Mojacar Christmas 2025, which highlights key dates and activities.

End the Holidays with the Three Kings Parade

On January 5, one of the most memorable things to do at Christmas in Mojacar is to watch the traditional Three Kings Parade. The streets fill with drums, lights and excitement as Melchior, Gaspar and Baltasar arrive, greeting children and throwing sweets to the crowd. It is a magical way to close the festive season by the sea.

A Winter Escape by the Mediterranean

Peaceful beaches, open hotels, and a full festive programme mean that there are always interesting things to do at Christmas in Mojacar. Whether you visit for a weekend or a longer holiday, the mix of Mediterranean scenery, Moorish charm and Christmas atmosphere makes this corner of the Almeria coast a special place to spend the holidays.


Want to discover more events, fiestas and things to do across the province? Browse the latest updates in our Events section.

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Events

Christmas in Albox Begins with Return of Monumental Nativity Scene

Published December 5, 2025 | Category: Events

TL;DR: Christmas in Albox officially began yesterday with the return of the Monumental Nativity Scene “Enrique Miras” and the switch-on of festive lights in Plaza de San Francisco.

Christmas in Albox Begins with Monumental Nativity Scene

Christmas in Albox started yesterday evening as the Monumental Nativity Scene “Enrique Miras” was inaugurated once again in Plaza de San Francisco. Hundreds of residents gathered to enjoy the first major event of the town’s festive programme, celebrating the start of the holiday season together.

From 6:00 p.m., children enjoyed the free inflatable Christmas village in the square, and by 7:30 p.m. the Christmas lights were officially switched on, bringing a warm glow to the heart of Albox. Immediately after, the tent hosting the spectacular nativity scene opened to the public, showcasing the traditional figures and detailed scenery that have been carefully assembled in recent days.

The nativity scene — a symbol of Christmas in Albox for decades — disappeared in 2016, leaving a gap in one of the town’s most beloved traditions. Thanks to the dedication of the “Friends of the Three Kings” association and especially local resident Enrique Miras, the tradition returned in 2023 and continues even stronger this year.

Local volunteers and community groups helped restore many of the pieces so that residents could once again enjoy their monumental nativity scene. After the inauguration, the Misas del Gozo Choir performed Christmas songs, adding to the festive atmosphere in the plaza.


Want to discover more events, fiestas and things to do across the province? Browse the latest updates in our Events section.

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Events

Roquetas de Mar Christmas 2025 – Full Guide to Events, Lights, Concerts & Family Activities

Published December 3, 2025 | Category: Events

TL;DR: Roquetas de Mar launches its Christmas 2025 programme under the theme “Estrella que guia la Navidad”, with more than 100 activities including children’s workshops, concerts, theatre, exhibitions, gastronomy, sports competitions, the traditional Little Park at Parque de Los Bajos, and the Three Kings Parades across Roquetas, Aguadulce and El Parador.

Roquetas de Mar Christmas 2025: Complete Guide to Events, Lights, Concerts and Family Activities

Roquetas de Mar has officially unveiled its Christmas 2025 programme — one of the most extensive festive calendars in the entire province of Almeria. Under the guiding theme “Estrella que guia la Navidad”, the Ayuntamiento has coordinated a full month of activities bringing together culture, sport, family entertainment, gastronomy and community traditions. According to the municipality, the goal is simple: to fill the city with life, warmth and Christmas spirit, creating a festive season that residents and visitors can enjoy together.

The programme, presented across the areas of Culture, Education, Sports, Tourism, Social Services and the Presidency Department, includes more than 100 activities for all ages. From children’s theatre to flamenco concerts, from nativity scenes to gastronomic fairs, from family workshops to major sporting competitions — Roquetas has prepared a Christmas season designed to shine until the arrival of the Three Kings on 5 January.

Table of Contents

Roquetas de Mar Christmas 2025: Full Seasonal Overview

The Roquetas de Mar Christmas programme brings together lights, family activities, Little Park, concerts, gastronomy, exhibitions and the Three Kings Parades across the entire municipality. Below is the full guide for 2025.

Christmas Lights Switch-On Ceremony 2025 – Plaza de la Constitución

The festive season officially begins with the Christmas lights switch-on, taking place at Plaza de la Constitución at 20:00. As every year, this symbolic moment marks the start of the holiday season in Roquetas de Mar, with music, local performances and a warm community atmosphere setting the tone for the weeks ahead.

Municipal Nativity Scene at Castillo de Santa Ana

The Castillo de Santa Ana, one of the town’s emblematic cultural spaces, hosts the Municipal Nativity Scene, an annual favourite among families and visitors. The display remains open throughout the festive period and is part of a wider programme of exhibitions held in both the castle and the nearby lighthouse.

Little Park at Parque de Los Bajos

One of the most anticipated attractions of Christmas in Roquetas is the seasonal transformation of Parque de Los Bajos into Little Park, a dedicated children’s and family entertainment zone packed with daily activities.

The Little Park programme includes:

  • Creative workshops and craft sessions
  • Magic shows
  • Children’s theatre and storytelling
  • Live music and themed performances
  • Meetings with Santa Claus, the Three Kings and Disney characters
  • Daily themed activities for families

Among the most notable shows for 2025 are: “Magia que rompe con Pedro Luque”, “Musical de heroes y aventuras”, “Master Class K-Pop”, “Navidad Creativa”, “Stitch & Angel: Ritmo de Fantasia”, “Bubu 360”, and “Papa Noel y Elfo en casita navidena”. Little Park also features a striking 25-metre lighthouse structure, installed as a festive landmark for families to enjoy.

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 17:00–20:00
  • Saturdays, Sundays, holidays and school vacations: 11:00–14:00 and 17:00–21:00
  • Closed on 24 and 31 December
  • Special hours on 25 December, 1 January and 6 January: 12:00–14:00 and 17:00–21:00
  • Sensory-friendly hour (no loud music or bright lights): daily 11:00–12:00 and 17:00–18:00

Concerts, Theatre and Cultural Performances

Throughout December, Roquetas de Mar hosts a wide cultural programme with music, dance, theatre and traditional Christmas performances. Notable events include:

  • Concerts by the Municipal School of Music
  • Instrumental ensembles and local choirs
  • Christmas concerts in El Parador and Aguadulce
  • Children’s theatre such as Historias Magicas de Navidad, El Secreto de la Magia, and El Show Navideno de Drilo
  • Family shows including Navidad en familia and Aladdin by Cia En la Luna Teatro
  • Dance academies and local cultural associations performing across the municipality

Exhibitions at Santa Ana Castle and Roquetas Lighthouse

The festive season also brings a variety of exhibitions at the Castillo de Santa Ana and the Roquetas Lighthouse. Highlights include:

  • Historia del juguete maritimo espanol (1880–1990)
  • Quiroga-Monte Collection
  • Belén Monumental
  • Photography exhibition by Jesus de Perceval
  • La Oca de los Artistas engravings collection
  • Nuestras Obras painting exhibition
  • Naval modelling exhibition: Proa al Modelismo Naval

Activities for Seniors and Local Associations

Roquetas de Mar maintains a strong community focus throughout the season. Traditional Christmas lunches, craft workshops, and neighbourhood festivities are organised specifically for seniors and local associations.

  • Christmas Lunch for Seniors at the Palace of Congresses and Exhibitions of Aguadulce (19 December)
  • Roscón distribution at senior centres (2–4 January)
  • Neighbourhood Christmas Festival on 14 December
  • 25th Anniversary Gala of the Municipal School of Music (18 December)
  • Zambomba Flamenca “Entre Flamencos 2025” (19 December)

Gastronomy: Swordfish Days & Aula del Mar Activities

Food lovers will enjoy the first edition of the Roquetas Swordfish Gastronomic Days, held from 4 to 8 December with the participation of 16 local restaurants. This new initiative celebrates Roquetas’ maritime culinary tradition.

The Aula del Mar also hosts family activities such as a Playmobil custom workshop, storytelling sessions, wellness workshops, and a theatrical marine-themed visit from the Three Kings.

Sports Events

Sport plays a major role in the Christmas programme, with highlights including:

  • “Almeria Desert Cup” football tournament (5–8 December)
  • Boxing Evening at the Infanta Cristina Sports Pavilion (6 December, 17:30)
  • Traditional New Year’s “Moragas” with live orchestra (29 December)

Christmas Commerce Initiatives

To support local businesses during the festive season, the Ayuntamiento launches two initiatives:

  • “Rasca y Gana” for purchases above €12
  • Christmas Shop Window Contest with prizes of €500, €300 and €200

Winners will be announced on 8 January 2026.

Three Kings Parades (5 January)

The festive season reaches its climax on 5 January with the Three Kings Parades across Roquetas de Mar, Aguadulce and El Parador. Floats, music and sweets bring joy to families as the mythical journey of the kings arrives in town.

Official Programme & More Information

This guide is based on the official Christmas programme published by the Ayuntamiento de Roquetas de Mar, which coordinates cultural, sports and tourism activities throughout the season.

Looking for more events across the province? Explore our full guide in the Events category.

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Towns & Villages

Vera Nativity Scene 2025: A Monumental Journey to Ancient Rome

Published December 2, 2025 | Category: Towns & Villages

TL;DR: Vera has inaugurated its Monumental Nativity Scene 2025 at the Convent of La Victoria, offering a detailed artistic journey through ancient Rome and the historical context of the birth of Jesus, complete with handcrafted scenes, immersive design and a strong cultural message for the Christmas season.

Vera Unveils Its Monumental Nativity Scene, Transporting Visitors to Ancient Rome

The Christmas season has officially begun in Vera with the inauguration of its Vera Nativity Scene 2025, a cultural tradition that attracts residents and visitors from across the region. Set inside the Convent of La Victoria, this year’s Nativity Scene offers a striking and immersive journey to ancient Rome, recreating the atmosphere of the early Imperial era during the reign of Emperor Augustus—historically linked to the birth of Jesus.

The opening ceremony was enriched by the music of the Da Music Quartet and presided over by renowned Nativity scene artist Antonio de Haro Marquez. Widely respected for his artistry, dedication to the craft and contribution to cultural heritage, he recently received the Spanish Federation of Nativity Scene Makers Trophy at the 61st National Nativity Scene Congress. He was joined by the Mayor of Vera, Alfonso Garcia Ramos, and the Councilor for Culture and Heritage, Antonio Jesus Soler Castano, who highlighted the importance of this tradition for the cultural identity of the municipality.

The construction of this year’s Nativity Scene has once again relied on the collaboration of the “Friends of the Vera Nativity Scene” Association, with lighting and 3D effects designed by Francis Sanchez Morata. According to the Ayuntamiento de Vera, the 2025 edition continues the town’s commitment to preserving a tradition deeply rooted in local heritage while also offering an evolving artistic experience each Christmas season.

A Journey Into Ancient Rome

The Monumental Nativity Scene 2025 stands out for its detailed reconstruction of ancient Rome. Visitors enter a visual narrative where elements of imperial grandeur coexist with everyday life and the humble origins of Christianity. Towering columns, lush gardens, stone pathways and architectural motifs recreate the setting of the Roman Empire in full splendor. These scenes contrast sharply with the modest depiction of the birth of Jesus, underscoring the difference between imperial power and the simplicity of the Holy Family.

The design intentionally alternates between moments of political power and scenes of ordinary life. Shepherds, craftsmen and families appear alongside ruins, market squares and symbolic landscapes. At the center of the display stands a cascading waterfall, symbolizing purity, renewal and the strength of life even in difficult times. Every corner reveals handcrafted figures, intricate textures and small details that invite visitors to pause, observe and reflect. As one of the most visited Vera Nativity Scene exhibitions in recent years, it continues to blend artistic creativity with cultural heritage.

Among the most striking scenes is the depiction of the Massacre of the Innocents, where Herod is presented as a ruler whose fear manifests in violence. This dramatic scene contrasts with quieter spaces that show daily Roman life, creating a rhythm that blends storytelling, history and devotion.

An Artistic, Cultural and Spiritual Dialogue

During the inauguration, Antonio de Haro Marquez described the Nativity Scene as more than a display. To him, it is a creative and emotional journey that invites visitors to reconnect with values of humility, hope and renewal. He explained that the experience is not only artistic but also reflective, offering people a way to understand and appreciate a moment in history that continues to shape cultural and spiritual traditions.

His words resonated with the audience, particularly when he reflected on how each corner of the Nativity Scene carries a message. Some scenes invite contemplation, others narrate familiar biblical events, and many encourage visitors to share stories, emotions and curiosity with children—keeping traditions alive through generations.

The opening address, delivered by Olivier Garcia Rodriguez, reinforced this perspective. He described the Nativity Scene as a “seed” capable of nurturing tenderness, faith and love in the hearts of children. His speech emphasized that Christmas should be understood as a space of gratitude, connection and hope, echoing longstanding cultural expressions of the season.

The exhibition also draws inspiration from a text traditionally attributed to Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral, framing Christmas as a symbol of new beginnings: “Christmas is love, hope, joy, redemption and renewal,” he noted. The Nativity Scene, with its artistic richness, seeks to convey these values through visual storytelling that invites visitors to reflect on the meaning of the season.

A Cultural Treasure Open to All

Mayor Alfonso Garcia Ramos highlighted the significance of the Monumental Nativity Scene for Vera’s identity. Every year, the exhibition becomes a focal point of the local Christmas calendar, drawing thousands of visitors who admire the craftsmanship, creativity and dedication behind each figure and scene. The mayor emphasized that the Nativity Scene is a cultural legacy shared by generations, representing community, spirituality and artistic excellence.

In addition to the main display, visitors can explore the extensive collection of Nativity scenes from around the world housed at the Convent of La Victoria. Comprising more than 800 pieces, this collection was generously donated by the family of Maria del Carmen Morant Belda. It adds an invaluable layer of cultural and historical richness, showcasing different artistic interpretations of the Nativity from various countries, eras and styles.

The Monumental Nativity Scene 2025 will remain open until January 11th, giving residents and visitors ample time to enjoy this unique artistic experience. With its blend of historical accuracy, artistic creativity and emotional depth, it stands as one of Vera’s most cherished Christmas traditions.


For more stories and local highlights from towns across the province, visit our Towns & Villages section.

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