For those who are looking for a different Christmas experience, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities that get crowded at Christmas, Ibiza in December is an option that will surprise you.
During the month of December and until Epiphany, Ibiza shows its most peaceful side, with local traditions, Christmas markets and a very special gastronomy that invite you to discover its most authentic side. The island organises very interesting Christmas events and thanks to the air routes that operate from the main European cities, flights are usually cheaper at this time of year.
1. Holiday rentals in Ibiza at Christmas time
If you are looking for a different kind of Christmas, renting a holiday home in Ibiza is the ideal option. You’ll enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own space, ideal for relaxing with family or friends. You can personalise your celebrations, from preparing a Christmas dinner in a fully equipped kitchen to relaxing on your private terrace overlooking the sea. In addition, many holiday homes have a swimming pool, garden and outdoor areas, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the good weather. With no fixed schedules and no crowds, this is the perfect option for a peaceful, tailor-made Christmas.
2. Rent a car to tour the island
One of the advantages of visiting the island at Christmas is the ease of getting from one place to another. The most convenient way to get around the island is by rental car, as it allows you to move freely between the different points of interest, and the road network makes it easy to connect between towns and places of interest. In December, traffic is light and parking is usually not a problem.
3. Enjoy Ibiza’s old town without the crowds
Dalt Vila, the old town of Ibiza Town, is an ideal place to visit. Without the summer crowds, you can stroll through its streets and shops at your leisure. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, and during the winter it offers a unique experience, especially at dusk, when Christmas lights illuminate the streets. In addition, nearby restaurants offer exclusive Christmas menus.
In the centre of Ibiza, traditional nativity scenes are set up in different churches, such as in the Santa Cruz parish church, where the nativity scene of typical figures depicts scenes of Ibizan life of yesteryear. You can also attend Christmas music concerts in the Cathedral of Santa Maria, an unforgettable experience in an impressive historical setting.
4. The flavour of Ibiza’s traditional gastronomy at Christmastime
These dates are ideal for savouring Ibiza’s Christmas gastronomy, with a selection of unique and traditional dishes. Throughout the island, you will find restaurants that prepare winter delicacies and festive recipes, such as “sofrit pagès”, a meat, sausage and potato stew that is perfect for the cooler weather, or “frita de pulpo” (fried octopus). As for sweets, the “salsa de Nadal”, a mixture of almonds, honey and spices that is only enjoyed at Christmas time, stands out. If you plan to dine out on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, book in advance to ensure a special experience in the most popular restaurants, famous for their authentic menus and family recipes.
5. Discovering Ibiza’s Christmas Markets
During December, Ibiza is full of Christmas markets that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy. The most famous markets are in Santa Eulalia, San José and San Antonio, offering handmade products, Christmas decorations, toys, sweets and a wide variety of unique gifts. In addition, you can enjoy live music, games for children and tastings of local products. These markets are not only an excellent opportunity to buy gifts, but also to experience the festive atmosphere and meet local artisans and producers.
- Las Dalias Christmas market: this hippy market is a must-see and is open from 14 December to 5 January. It is ideal for finding gifts from Father Christmas or the Three Wise Men.
- Casa Maca Christmas Market: It is set up outdoors and has a wide variety of food stalls, live music and a very special Christmas decoration. This market stands out for its cosy and family atmosphere, as well as for its inspiration from the markets of Germany and Austria, offering a different experience in Ibiza.
- San Antonio Christmas Market: held in mid-December. As is traditional, Carrer Rossell is filled with craft stalls, gastronomy, musical performances and also charity stalls.
- Eivissa Christmas Market: held in the Plaça del Parc. It is ideal if you love Christmas market tourism, because you will find many Christmas products and scheduled entertainment events such as parades and micro-concerts.
6. Cañas’n’Roll Festival in San José
The Cañas’n’Roll Festival, one of the most anticipated December events in Ibiza, is held every weekend in San José. The festival offers live music, theatre, tapas and local drinks, creating a festive atmosphere. It’s perfect for lovers of music, gastronomy and the island’s Christmas atmosphere. It also features outdoor activities to enjoy Ibiza’s great weather.
7. Midnight Mass in the Cathedral
The Misa del Gallo (Midnight Mass) in Ibiza Cathedral, known as “Misa de Maitines”, is a Christmas tradition held at midnight on the 24th of December. The ceremony brings together residents and visitors, highlighted by the singing of the Caramelles, religious songs performed by local musicians. It is a spiritual and cultural experience that connects with the history and folklore of the island. Admission is free.
8. The Ibiza 3-Day Trail Race
This race is ideal for lovers of sport and nature. It is held on the first weekend in December and is divided into three stages of 10 kilometres each, running through the most spectacular landscapes of the island. The first stage is at night, which offers a unique experience. Participants can choose between different modalities, including half marathon or full marathon, depending on their level.
9. New Year’s Eve party in Ibiza
The New Year’s Eve celebration on the island has a different and welcoming character. In Ibiza town, in the Plaza del Parque, a big party is organised with live music, fireworks and a special countdown that will attract those who want to welcome the New Year in an original way.
The Pachá nightclub in Ibiza offers a New Year’s Eve party to say goodbye to the year in style. With a great atmosphere and exclusive decoration, it is one of the few clubs open in winter, offering music, live shows and the chance to dance until dawn. It is a special event, typical of the island. The party is held on 31 December, and prices vary, so check their website for more details.
10. Cavalcade of Kings
In Spain, the 6th of January is celebrated as the Cabalgata de Reyes, a much-anticipated tradition in Ibiza. Although the Three Wise Men usually arrive on the evening of the 5th of January, they travel the streets of the island in floats, throwing sweets and gifts to the children, creating a festive atmosphere for the whole family. The main towns, such as Ibiza Town and Santa Eulalia, offer parades, music and special activities, making it an event full of magic and joy, ideal for residents and tourists alike.
Christmas in Ibiza is an experience that goes beyond the conventional, combining the magic of the holidays with the charm of the island in winter.
