Christmas arrives on November 24th when the lights go on in Malaga's Calle Larios

With year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, seasonal changes on the Costa del Sol are more marked by a change in routine and custom rather than foliage that shift in colour and snowstorms.

Christmas on the Costa del Sol is one of the warmest in all of Europe. With average temperatures of 18°C , the month of December is generally characterised by bright, crisp skies and sunshine. White, snowy landscapes are replaced by beach promenades lined with palm trees that sway to the tinkering of Christmas songs that emanate from tinsel adorned chiringuitos.

The Spanish share many Christmas traditions with the rest of Europe, spending time with family and friends being the single most important priority. The first gathering of the season takes place in Malaga on November 24th, when the Christmas lights will be switched on at Calle Larios. Christmas markets and street concerts will take place from 19:00 at the foot of the Alcazeba and in the park that leads to Plaza de la Marina.

Malaga is just a 20 minute drive from Benalmadena and a 40-50 minute drive away from Marbella and Puerto Banus. There are also fast and reliable train connections between Fuengirola and Malaga with Renfe.

During the entire Christmas season, the impressive light display will remain on view, with a light and music show every single evening at 6:30 and 9:30pm and a warm, festive ambience in every tapas bar and restaurant in the city.