There is only one answer to the question: ‘What is Estepona like at Christmas?’ and that would be magical! To borrow some words from Elton John, Estepona is definitely ‘stepping into Christmas’ and this year the town is pulling out all of the stops, with programme that is absolutely packed.
There will be lots of activities for all ages, from nativities to concerts, musicals, ballet, flamenco, foodie events, contests, charity activities and of course, an incredible Three Kings Parade in the New Year. And there is even-more good news; not only has the local government rewarded Estepona’s residents with a tax cut, most events will be completely free and spread across venues and streets all over town.
Too many events to mention
There are so many events taking place in the centre of Estepona and the outlying area, with festive scenes popping up all around town, that it is impossible to mention them all. So, we have picked some of our favourite activities, and there is no better place to start than the official switch-on of the lights:
Christmas lights switch-on
Get involved in the festive fun by entering into the traditional Christmas competitions for 2025. This is a great way for schools and families to get together to provide a Christmassy creative project. Here are the categories and the prize on offer:
- Christmas shop windows: 400€, 200€ and 100€ for first, second and third, and an additional 100€ for the shop using the most sustainable (recycled or reusable materials).
- Christmas facades: 400€, 200€ and 100€ for the best three, as judged by a jury on 15th
- Family Nativity Scene: The best realistic nativity scene (inside the home), as judged by the jury on 15th December. Prizes: 300€, 200€ and 100€
- Recycled Christmas (schools): Decorations made with recycled or reusable materials. Prize: 200€ for the winning school.
To enter: For more information call: 952 80 11 00 / 952 80 90 00 (Ext: 1405)
An exciting new arrival: The Christmas Park
One of this year’s star attractions is the brand-new Christmas Park, taking over the whole exterior of the Felipe VI Auditorium Theatre. It’s basically festive heaven: an ice rink, Santa’s grotto, a carousel, bumper cars, ice slide, bouncy castles and a food zone.
- Open: 29th November – 4th January
- Opening hours:00 – 23.00 (Opens at 11.00 on 25th December & 1st January)
- Closed: 24th and 31st December
Lights, camera, action: Shows at the Felipe VI Auditorium
December has a full programme of performances, with many designed especially for children and families:
November
- 28th (20.00): Great Acrobatic Circus of China
- 29th (17.00 & 19.00): K-Pop Warriors
- 30th (18.00): The Island of Maui – A Tribute to Moana
December
- 5th (21.00): 80s & 90s Musical
- 7th (18.00) : The Nutcracker Ballet
- 12th (21.00): A Doll’s House by Ibsen
- 14th (18.00): Musical Tad Jones: The Emerald Tablet
- 19th (18.00): Christmas show by Los Cantores de Híspalis with Natalia Calceteiro
- 28th (12.30 & 17.00): Double session of Cantajuego’s The Adventures of Coco and Pepe
Outlet Fair – Palacios de Exposiciones and Congreses
If you enjoy shopping and love a bargain, get yourself down to the Palacio de Exposiciones and Congresos on the 5th, 6th or 7th December. You will be able enjoy huge discounts of up to 60% to 80% on big brand-names, such as Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Armani, along with cosmetics, accessories and other household items. New stock will be added each day, so there will be something new to discover.
- Open: 5th, 6th & 7th December
- Opening times: 10.00 – 22.00
- Tickets: 2€ (50% of proceeds will go to the Spanish Association Against Cancer in Estepona)
The ‘Popi, Sabor a Málaga’ Cheese Fair – Pure bliss for cheese lovers!
The IX Feria del Queso Popi Sabor a Málaga returns with a delicious selection of local products, organised with the support of the Estepona City Council, José María Téllez “Popi”, and the Sabor a Málaga brand. Over 80% of the cheeses come from Málaga, and the more than thirty stalls offer everything from soft and creamy to strong mature flavours, with plenty of tastings along the way. You’ll also find wine, olive oil, dried fruits, olives, preserves, and pâtés, making it a treat for any foodie. The perfect place to pick up a last-minute Christmas gift.
- Open: 12th to 14th December
- Venue: Paseillo of Calle Real will be filled with artisan cheeses from around the region.
- Opening hours: Daily from 11:00 to 21:00
Santa’s Christmas Village
Estepona is the place where all children will want to visit this Christmas, especially with confirmation that a party will take place in Santa’s Christmas Village. There will be chocolate, a Christmas train, boat, penguins, artificial snow and much more.
- Date: Monday 23rd December
- Opening:00 to 21.00
- Venue: Plaza del Ajedrez
New Year’s Eve – The countdown to 2026
The year’s farewell festivities will conclude on December 31, starting at 11:00 p.m., with the Popular New Year’s Eve Party in Plaza del Reloj. The celebration will feature a Las Vegas–style performance by the Q Gain orchestra, and attendees can enjoy complimentary party favours as they ring in the New Year, which will be welcomed by a fireworks show.
- Date: Monday 23rd December
- Opening: 00 to 21.00
- Venue: Plaza del Ajedrez
Three Kings Day Celebrations – (Town Hall) – 17.00
Although Christmas may have passed, the Three Kings Day is a special time in Spain and Estepona comes alive this day with a full programme of children’s activities. The celebrations begin on the 3rd January, when children can deliver their letters to the Royal Postman (for letters to the Three Kings) at Plaza Antonia Guerrero (17.00 to 20.00).
The festivities continue on Monday, 5th January, when there will be a children’s party at the Palacio de Exposiciones and Congresos, starting at 11.30, with a magician. In the evening, the main event will begin: The Three Kings parade will start at 17.00 from the Town Hall entrance. The colourful cavalcade of the “Three Wise Men” will pass through the centre of Estepona, handing out tons of candy in a festive and colourful atmosphere, accompanied by bands, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
For a full list of events taking place in Estepona this Christmas, visit the local government website.
If you are considering visiting the Costa del Sol over Christmas for a holiday or you perhaps you would like to take advantage of the festive period to look for the perfect property to buy in Estepona, you will not be disappointed. This beautiful corner of the Costa del Sol offers the perfect mix of seasonal cheer and every day amenities.
Is a new property on the Costa del Sol on your Christmas list?
No matter your budget or property preference; whether you can see yourself living in a villa on the New Golden Mile Estepona or you are looking for a charming property for sale in Estepona Old Town, Top Properties Estepona’s estate agents can show you the best choice of property to buy in Estepona and the surrounding areas
