Christmas in Tenerife: How to enjoy an unforgettable festive season under the sun

Spending Christmas in Tenerife is a unique experience that blends the festive spirit with pleasant temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere. While other parts of the world celebrate the holidays with cold weather, snow, and thick coats, Tenerife offers a spring-like climate with sunny days and clear skies. If you’re planning an alternative holiday this year, here’s how to make your Christmas in Tenerife truly unforgettable.

Perfect weather for a sunny Christmas

One of Tenerife’s biggest attractions during Christmas is its weather. In December and January, temperatures range between 18°C and 24°C, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about the cold. As a volcanic island, Tenerife also experiences very little rain during winter, guaranteeing sunny days for your holiday.

Whether you prefer walking along the beach, hiking through the island’s mountainous landscapes, or simply basking in the sun, Tenerife provides the perfect setting for celebrating the festive season outdoors.

Local Christmas Traditions in Tenerife

Despite its warm climate, Tenerife embraces the Christmas traditions that characterise this time of year. Streets and squares in towns and cities are adorned with festive lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes, creating a magical atmosphere that combines the best of Spanish and Canarian culture.

Canarian Nativity Scenes

One of the most cherished traditions in Tenerife is the nativity scenes, known as belenes. These elaborate displays depict the birth of Jesus using handcrafted figurines, often made locally. Some of the largest and most impressive nativity scenes can be found in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Orotava. Visiting these displays is a must for anyone spending Christmas on the island.

Christmas Concert in Santa Cruz

Another unmissable event is the Christmas Concert in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Held every year on 25th December at the city’s port, this free open-air performance by the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra draws both locals and visitors. With the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop and classical music filling the air, it’s a magical way to celebrate Christmas Day.

Outdoor Christmas Activities

Tenerife offers a wide range of activities to enjoy during Christmas, many of which are made possible by the island’s enviable climate. From beach strolls to nature excursions, there’s something for everyone.

Exploring Teide National Park

Home to Spain’s tallest volcano, Teide National Park is a must-visit at any time of year, including Christmas. Hiking trails provide stunning views of the volcanic landscape, and on clear days, you can even spot snow on the higher peaks of Mount Teide, while temperatures remain mild at lower altitudes. It’s a striking contrast that only Tenerife can deliver.

Beaches and Water Sports

For those who prefer to relax by the sea, Tenerife boasts beaches to suit all tastes. Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje is a favourite for those seeking luxury and tranquillity, while more adventurous visitors can try water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, or snorkelling at spots like El Médano or Playa de las Américas.

Festive Gastronomy in Tenerife

Food plays a central role in Tenerife’s Christmas celebrations. While traditional Canarian dishes are available year-round, Christmas menus often feature fresh seafood, roasted goat, and, of course, festive sweets.

Canarian Christmas Desserts

Desserts are an essential part of Tenerife’s Christmas table. Popular treats include turrón and marzipan, as well as bienmesabe, a traditional Canarian dessert made with almonds, sugar, and lemon. These sweets are perfect for sharing with family or enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or a glass of honey rum, a local speciality.

Celebrate Christmas at Hotel Villa Adeje Beach

If you choose Tenerife for your Christmas getaway, Hotel Villa Adeje Beach promises an unforgettable festive experience. Every year, the hotel hosts a Christmas Gala and a New Year’s Eve Gala, offering special dinners and a festive atmosphere. A variety of activities and events are also organised to ensure the whole family enjoys the holiday season.

During the Christmas Gala, our chefs prepare a sumptuous menu featuring both local and international delicacies, while the New Year’s Eve Gala includes a gala dinner and a spectacular show to ring in the New Year in style. To enhance your stay, the hotel provides daily entertainment and special seasonal activities throughout the festive period.

Spending Christmas in Tenerife is a unique opportunity to celebrate the season in a different way, surrounded by sunshine, breathtaking landscapes, and local traditions. From cultural events to outdoor adventures, the island offers something for every traveller. And by staying at Hotel Villa Adeje Beach, you can make your festive season even more memorable with our exclusive galas and special events.