7 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD SPEND CHRISTMAS ON LANZAROTE

Christmas is a special time of year for many, and spending it in the Canary Islands is a truly unique experience. Read on to discover just some of the reasons why celebrating Christmas on Lanzarote is an excellent decision.

1. The warm weather: The Canary Islands enjoy warm temperatures all year round, and at Christmas, the thermometer averages between 18 and 20 degrees. This means that you can enjoy activities outdoors and on the beach, something that in many other places is simply not possible at this time of year.

Thanks to this marvellous temperature, the beaches of Lanzarote are dotted with snowmen – cleverly built from the sand in an authentic display of creativity!

2. Local celebrations:When it comes to Christmas celebrations, Lanzarote, with its wealth of culture and deeply rooted traditions, is in a league of its own. Apart from the traditions that are characteristic of the Canary Islands as a whole, the island has its own customs that make it truly unique.

The capital, Arrecife, hosts countless Christmas celebrations that add a special touch to the festive season. Indeed, at Christmastime, Arrecife becomes a vibrant setting for a series of events, several of which are listed below:

Ranchos de Pascua: The streets of Arrecife come alive with the Ranchos de Pascua, groups that sing carols and hymns of praise to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

The Three Kings Parade: The parade, presided over by the Three Kings, accompanied by their pages and camels, makes its way majestically through the streets of Lanzarote’s capital, filling them with all the magic of the Epiphany.

Christmas market: This Christmas market is renowned for being one of the most popular on the island. Visitors will find all kinds of traditional Christmas produce, from sweets and pastries to crafts and gifts.

Christmas concerts: Traditional and contemporary music come together at the numerous Christmas concerts that are held on the shores of the Charco de San Ginés lagoon and in the Marina area, creating a very special sound track for the festive season.

3. Christmas decorations: During the festive season, the streets of the Canary Islands are adorned with Christmas lights and decorations.

Celebrating Christmas on Lanzarote means joining in the festive fun in its municipalities, which boast spectacular decorations such as the magnificent 15-metre sculpture and more than 35,000 lights opposite the island government’s headquarters in Arrecife. Visitors will also marvel at the static and living nativity scenes that can be admired around the island, such as the iconic nativity scene in   Valle de las Mil Palmeras or the vast nativity scene in Yaiza, which covers more than 23 metres.

4. Nature and culture: The Canary Islands offer a host of cultural and nature experiences that can be enjoyed even during the Christmas season. Thanks to the delightful temperatures, activities such as visiting Timanfaya National Park, exploring the caves of Jameos del Agua, admiring the Cactus Garden or going on excursions around the island are as accessible as ever.

Apart from exploring the island’s natural beauty, Christmas in the Canaries is a great opportunity to discover at first hand local traditions such as the Fiesta de los Finaos or Finado. The peace and tranquillity of nature and colourful local customs come together in a unique setting that guarantee a truly memorable festive time on Lanzarote.

5. Traditional fare: Canarias boasts unique Christmas culinary traditions that are a delicious invitation to savour authentic flavours.

The choice of Christmas delicacies includes blanched roasted gofio maize, Canary Island-style stuffed turkey, wrinkly potatoes with mojo sauce and traditional desserts such as turrón nougat and the classic shortbread pastries (polvorones). These dishes reflect the authenticity of the local cuisine, a fusion of fresh ingredients and flavours that have been passed down from generation to generation.

6. Christmas markets: Christmas markets are an essential part of the celebrations that take place in the Canary Islands. Visitors will find very special gift ideas, including local arts and crafts, decorations and the islands’ traditional fare.

Throughout this period, Lanzarote’s markets are overflowing with a wealth of autochthonous and artisanal products. A bottle of wine of certified origin, jars of delicious jams and marmalades made from locally grown fruit such as figs, oranges or prickly pears, goat’s cheese or boxes of shortcakes, all prepared to the traditional recipes of our grandmothers.

 7. Starry skies: The Canary Islands boast one of the lowest levels of light pollution and optimum conditions for stargazing, an experience that is particularly magical at Christmastime: if you look closely enough, you’ll be able to spot Father Christmas and his reindeer flying through the Canary Islands skies.

If you’re looking for the perfect destination for a Christmas with a difference, then Lanzarote stands out as your best option.  And to complete this unique experience, we’re delighted to invite you to discover our THB Tropical Island, THB Flora and THB Royal hotels, where you’ll be able to enjoy entertainment programmes tailored to make your stay even more special.

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