Arroz al horno
Christmas in Valencia is an ideal time to discover the city on a visit with even more charm. The entire city joins in the celebration of one of the most culturally important holidays.
Illuminated streets, roasted chestnut stalls, Christmas markets, ice rinks, and much more. We tell you how to enjoy Christmas in Valencia.
Christmas plans in Valencia
Although when you think of Christmas, Valencia may not be the first city that comes to mind, the capital of the Turia has more and more Christmas plans every year.
The Town Hall Square is the nerve center of Christmas in Valencia. The city's official Christmas tree, an ice skating rink, a carousel, etc. are usually set up there.
The square is not the only place in the city with Christmas spirit. In recent years, Christmas trees have been installed in the different neighborhoods of the city. In addition, from the end of November, the streets are filled with lights (which can be seen from nightfall) and poinsettias.
Shop windows are also decorated with all kinds of Christmas details and in parks and squares such as the Parc Central or the Plaza del Mercado Central and the Lonja are transformed into Christmas markets with typical gastronomic products such as nougat or polvorones, gifts and entertainment and activities for the whole family.
A good Christmas plan in Valencia is to have a hot chocolate (or a snack) in the Mercado de Colón, which has one of the most beautiful trees (and Christmas decorations in general) in the city.
During this time of year, activities for children are organized in Valencia. ExpoJove (at Feria Valencia) is a classic. An event dedicated to children with all kinds of recreational activities. On the other hand, in the area near the port, the Christmas Fair is set up every year, with attractions, raffles, and activities for all tastes.
In Valencia, as in many Spanish cities, setting up the Nativity scene is part of the Christmas tradition. We can find Nativity scenes both in the streets and in museums, shopping centers, or emblematic places. A good Christmas family plan is to do a "Nativity scene route" to discover artistic jewels. One of the most important is the one at the town hall (located in its Crystal Hall), which has more than 40 square meters and 100 figures. Also, the Neapolitan Nativity scene at the National Museum of Ceramics and many more.
Bringing in the New Year in the Town Hall Square is quite a plan. You can start the year with the 12 chimes and the 12 grapes accompanied by other Valencians to have a year of good luck. Afterward, there are always public parties until well into the night.
On the eve of Three Kings' Day, a grand parade is held in Valencia prior to the most magical night of the year. The route may vary, but it usually begins at the port (where the Three Wise Men disembark) and passes through the main streets of the center until it reaches the Town Hall Square.
If you want to enjoy Christmas in Valencia, you can stay at Sea You Hotel, from where you can enjoy the different Christmas plans in Valencia with the comfort that the dates deserve.