Christmas in Ibiza

Why should I go to Ibiza at Christmas?

Ibiza's mild climate means that Christmas is very different from in chillier countries. The temperatures by day rarely drop below 10°C. What's more, it's almost always sunny, so you won't feel the cold so much. By day, you'll want a jacket, but you won't need a thick coat as you explore the festive window displays and traditional nativity scenes all around town. This is a great time to see a quieter side to the island, as the summer hordes are long gone. It's the perfect chance to enjoy a family holiday in Ibiza, with plenty of attractions for young and old alike.

Where should I stay for the best Christmas experience?

If you really want to get into the festive spirit of Ibiza at Christmas, it's best to stay in or near Ibiza Town. This is the island's capital, and it's where all the main events will be happening: ice skating, the biggest Christmas market, great shopping and New Year's fireworks. However, other parts of the island have some festive fun, too. You'll find another Christmas market in San Antonio. If you're staying in the family-friendly resort town of Santa Eulalia, head to The Hub co-working space. During the festive season, it screens classic Christmas movies almost every evening.

Enjoy a festive feast

The festive season is all about food, and Christmas in Ibiza is no exception! Generally, locals have their main Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve, and it's an extravagant, multi-course affair. The whole family gets dressed up for a meal that tends to be heavy on seafood. As well as a range of fish dishes, you'll find hearty fares like fava pelada, a creamy soup with broad beans and sausage. The highlight is the Salsa de Nadal, a sauce that mixes sweet and savoury flavours with almonds, cinnamon and beef stock.

Enjoy all the fun of the fair

Every year, a funfair sets up in Ibiza Town in late November, staying until the middle of January. There are rides for the whole family, from gentle carousels to stomach-churning rollercoasters. It's free to wander around the funfair, but you'll have to pay for each ride. There are also stalls where you can shoot a gun or throw darts to win prizes, raffles and more. Of course, you'll find traditional funfair food, which in Spain means thick, tasty churros as well as candyfloss and popcorn.

Go clubbing on New Year's Eve

What makes New Year's Eve in Ibiza different? The legendary clubs, of course! If you've been planning your trip for a while, it helps to book early. You'll often enjoy early bird prices: for example, at the superclub Pacha, if you act fast you can get a ticket for the New Year's party for €50, but it'll cost you €80 on the door. Several of the island's biggest and best clubs hold New Year's parties, and some also stagger them, so you can dance the night away for three days or more.

Enjoy the Three Kings' Parade

Choose holiday lettings in Ibiza in early January and you'll find that the Christmas season is still in full swing. Spanish Christmas doesn't end until after the 6th of January, when the Three Kings visit, bringing sweets and presents for boys and girls. On the evening of the 5th, the streets of Ibiza Town are lit up for a spectacular parade, as the Three Kings and their helpers travel on grand floats, throwing sweets to cheering onlookers. Enjoy a cream-filled roscón de reyes pastry and join in the fun.