Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025: take note of the best plans to do at Christmas in the capital

In this article we tell you about the best Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, dates and the most entertaining activities to do surrounded by the people you love the most on these important dates.

Here we tell you the best christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, because Christmas is that magical time of year that we all look forward to, filling the atmosphere with joy, peace and festive spirit. It is a wonderful time to share love and happiness, and Madrid becomes the perfect setting to enjoy it to the fullest.

From walks among bright lights to the pleasure of drinking hot chocolate, eating roasted chestnuts and skating outdoors, the city offers Christmas experiences for all tastes.

During the holidays, Madrid lights up with an explosion of colors and lights that adorn its streets and main squares. Walking under the lights becomes one of the favorite Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 for families, friends and couples looking to immerse themselves in the authentic Christmas spirit of the capital.

In addition, Madrid becomes a large winter amusement park with activities such as ice skating rinks, fairs and carousels. These christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, along with the light and music shows at strategic points in the city, offer multiple options to enjoy and create unique memories.

Let’s find out about them all!

Attend the Christmas lights

The inauguration of the Christmas lights in Madrid this 2024 will be celebrated on Thursday, November 28 at a special event in the emblematic Puerta del Sol. On this long-awaited date, the lights will be turned on to fill the city with magic and officially start the Christmas season.

With millions of bulbs illuminating hundreds of places, Madrid will not stop shining, offering a unique spectacle for locals and visitors. The capital is preparing to receive tourists from all over the country and the world, who will find in its streets one of the christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 favorites for locals and tourists.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Christmas lights in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

Visit the most important nativity scenes in the city

Among the christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, visiting the emblematic nativity scenes is an unmissable experience that combines tradition and art. One of the most outstanding is the Nativity Scene of the Madrid City Hall, which is located in the Cibeles Palace, specifically in the CentroCentro Operations Patio. This nativity scene, set up on a circular stage, offers an excellent view from any angle, with visiting shifts every 30 minutes and limited capacity.

Another classic of the city is the Nativity Scene of the San Isidro Museum, set up in the museum’s Renaissance courtyard in Plaza de San Andrés. This traditional nativity scene invites locals and visitors to enjoy Christmas and get to know the building, which houses valuable pieces of Madrid’s history. Its careful representation reflects the essence of the festivities in a space full of history.

Also, the Nativity Scene of the Madrid History Museum, located in the museum’s chapel on Calle Fuencarral, 78, presents a Nativity scene with more than fifty figures of animals and people. This representation, inspired by the trades and customs of 18th-century Naples, combines elements of the birth of Jesus with scenes from the daily life of that time. 

Admission is free until full capacity is reached, making it an accessible and endearing plan for all audiences.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Nativity scene at Madrid City Hall / Photo via Pinterest

Ice skating

Ice skating is one of the christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 that most excites Madrid residents and visitors. The Matadero ice rink has become a classic of the Christmas season, offering an ideal space for both experts and those who put on skates for the first time. At this meeting point, you can enjoy everything from free practice to impressive exhibitions organized by the Madrid Winter Sports Federation.

Another emblematic place is Cibeles sobre Hielo, a 400 m² rink installed since 2012 in the Galería de Cristal of the Palacio de Cibeles. Every Christmas, this space is filled with skaters looking to enjoy the experience in a unique and festive environment, surrounded by lights and decorations that make skating an even more special activity.

In addition, for those looking for skating options in different areas of the city, the ice rinks in Fuencarral-El Pardo and Centro will be open to the public from December 1 to January 7. The first is located on Avenida Monforte de Lemos, in Parque de la Vaguada, while the second is set up in Plaza de Juan XXIII. Both offer a perfect option to enjoy winter outdoors in the company of family and friends.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Ice skating in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

Shopping and strolling through the Christmas markets

Christmas markets in Madrid are a charming tradition and one of the christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 that cannot be missed during the season. The Christmas Market in the Plaza Mayor is the most iconic in the city, offering a wide variety of Christmas products, decorations, nativity figures and gifts from November 24 to December 31. This market opens from Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on Fridays, Saturdays and holiday eves until 10:00 p.m., with uninterrupted hours, making it the ideal destination for Christmas strolls and shopping in the heart of Madrid.

Another excellent option is the Craft Fair and Christmas Venue in Fuencarral-El Pardo, located on Avenida Monforte de Lemos and Parque de la Vaguada. From December 1st to January 7th, this fair combines an offer of artisanal products with a festive and family atmosphere, perfect for acquiring unique details and supporting local artisans.

For those looking for a Christmas atmosphere in other neighborhoods, the Tetuán Christmas Market is set up in Plaza de la Remonta from December 1st to January 5th. This market offers a wide variety of products and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a stroll while choosing Christmas gifts and home decorations.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Christmas market in Plaza Mayor in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

Christmas wreath workshop

For those looking to add a special touch to their Christmas decoration, this Christmas wreath workshop is one of the most original Christmas plans in Madrid. With the guidance of a professional florist and the Perfect Venue team, you will learn all the secrets to create a decoration that will leave everyone impressed. During the workshop, you will not only discover the best tips for decorating your Christmas table, but you will also be able to design and take home your own wreath, perfect for hanging on the door or using as a centerpiece.

The workshop covers all the essential details: from which fruits and natural elements to use, to how to combine floral arrangements to achieve a style that stands out at Christmas. In addition, you will learn techniques to create versatile decorations that not only beautify the door or the table, but can also be used on the tree or as part of other corners of your home.

If creating handmade decorations is your thing, you will love to know that you can also participate in a wax candle workshop with a glass of wine in hand. In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to create your own candles, ideal for adding warmth and light to your home during the Christmas holidays.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Christmas wreath workshop in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

Visit of the royal emissaries to the Cuesta de Moyano as one of your Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025

To add a literary touch to the Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, on January 4 the royal emissaries of the Three Wise Men will visit the Cuesta de Moyano, one of the most emblematic places in the city for book lovers. This tradition celebrates the value of reading as a special gift, remembering that books are often the presents that children find under the tree on the morning of January 6.

During the visit, the emissaries will chat with the booksellers and take note of the titles and topics that most fascinate the city’s children. This activity turns the Cuesta de Moyano into a magical and special place for families who wish to share their love of reading in a Christmas setting.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Visit of the royal envoys to the Cuesta de Moyano in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

The long-awaited Three Kings’ Parade

The Three Kings’ Parade is one of the most anticipated Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, for both adults and children. Every January 5th, the Three Wise Men visit us to hand out gifts and, with them, renew the magic of Christmas. This tradition, which recreates the moment when the star of Bethlehem guided the three Wise Men to the Child Jesus, symbolizes the union and respect between generations, where the gift goes beyond a simple object: it is a gesture of love, experience, values ​​and tenderness. The elders transmit their wisdom and the children return smiles, creating a circle of joy and affection that lasts.

The impressive royal floats, full of color and details, parade through the main streets of Madrid, accompanied by the pages and a procession that hands out candy and excitement. 

The parade begins at 6:30 p.m., leaving from Plaza de San Juan de la Cruz and crossing Paseo de la Castellana, Paseo de Recoletos, until reaching Plaza de Cibeles. This event is a magical experience that fills the city with emotion and is the perfect way to say goodbye to Christmas with a smile.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Three Kings Parade in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

Culture throughout Christmas

Christmas in Madrid is not only experienced through lights and markets, but also through a rich cultural offering that fills every corner of the city with magic. During these holidays, the streets, squares and balconies are filled with jazz, gospel, flamenco and other musical genres that connect with the spirituality and spirit of celebration of the season. Local and international artists offer special repertoires that invite us to enjoy music as a form of union and joy, creating a unique atmosphere of communion and festivity.

Madrid’s churches, for their part, open their doors once again to host flamenco, classical music and fado concerts, with the participation of leading figures from each genre. These christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 become a long-awaited tradition for those seeking a more spiritual and profound Christmas experience, where music becomes the common thread of the celebration.

In addition, the city’s theatres and cultural centres are filled with exhibitions and works for all tastes. From theatre shows to art exhibitions, Madrid offers a diverse cultural programme that makes Christmas an ideal time to enjoy culture in all its forms. The districts’ choral groups are also protagonists of this cultural cycle, making each performance a classic of the Christmas season.

Christmas plans in Madrid for 2025
Christmas music / Photo via Pinterest

LIFE Nature on Fire

LIFE Nature on Fire is one of the most eagerly awaited christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, turning the Enrique Tierno Galván Park into a magical world where everything comes to life.

From November 22 to January 4, this experience will take you through the three great natural kingdoms: the aquatic, the terrestrial and the aerial, each full of surprising wonders. With impressive lights, music and projections, LIFE offers a fascinating tour that will make you enjoy unique moments with family and friends. A Christmas adventure that you cannot miss!

Naturaleza-Encendida-Life-en-Madrid-
Nature on Fire in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

San Silvestre Vallecana and the Santa Claus Race

Every December 31, Madrid becomes the epicentre of sport and festivities with the San Silvestre Vallecana, the most multitudinous athletic event in Spain, which has brought together thousands of runners since 1964. With a distance of 10 kilometres, this race is divided into two modalities: the popular and the elite. What makes the San Silvestre even more special is its international recognition, being one of the four 10K races in the world with the prestigious IAAF Gold Race Running Label. Without a doubt, an occasion to say goodbye to the year in an active and festive way, surrounded by runners from all over the world.

The Christmas spirit also invades Madrid on December 24, 2024 with the Santa Claus Race, which celebrates its thirteenth edition. This fun race of approximately 5 kilometres takes place in the heart of Madrid, with start and finish on Paseo de Recoletos. At this event, both children and adults dress up as Santa Claus and parade through the streets of the city centre, filling Christmas Eve with joy and colour. The Santa Claus Race has become a tradition that kicks off the Christmas holidays in Madrid.

The Santa Claus Race in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

New Year’s Eve chimes at Puerta del Sol

The New Year’s Eve chimes at Puerta del Sol are a tradition that cannot be missed! It is that magical moment of the night when, with the 12 grapes, Madrid welcomes the new year, surrounded by music, party favors and lots of joy. Seeing it all live, with the TV on and excitement in the air, is a unique experience. If you decide to go, don’t forget to arrive early to get a good seat! The atmosphere is incredible, and the party and fun are guaranteed. Enjoy the last night of the year as it deserves!

New Year’s Eve chimes at Puerta del Sol / Photo via Pinterest

Visit the first turrón museum in Madrid

The Casa 1880 store, located at Calle Arenal, 18, not only offers a wide variety of turrón, but also houses the first turrón museum in Madrid. At this museum, visitors can take a self-guided tour, with options in Spanish and English, where they will discover the history of this traditional sweet over more than 500 years.

During the visit, the public will be immersed in a sensory journey, starting with the sounds and aromas of a crop field, which transports them to the first moments of turrón production. The tour includes a look at the old utensils that were used in its manufacture, as well as the uses and customs of the time, reflected in traditional clothing.

At the end of the visit, visitors will be able to enjoy a free tasting of classic products and some new products from this famous Alicante turrón brand. Without a doubt, one of the christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 for lovers of sweets and the history of Christmas gastronomy.

Turron museum in Madrid / Photo via Pinterest

Family Day Christmas at the Hipódromo de la Zarzuela

On December 26 and 28, a new edition of Family Day Christmas will be held, one of the christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 specially designed to be enjoyed by the family. From 11:00 a.m., attendees will be able to enjoy a complete program full of free and surprising activities, designed for adults and children. This day takes place in an open-air environment of more than 20,000 m², which allows you to enjoy a unique experience in a spacious and welcoming space.

During the event, you can see five exciting horse races, a traditional spectacle in which thoroughbreds, with their impressive speed and beauty, will be the protagonists. These races guarantee excitement and adrenaline for all sports lovers. In addition, there will be two pony races so that the youngest members of the family can also experience the excitement of competitions in a fun way and adapted to their age.

In addition to the races, attendees will be able to enjoy exclusive shows and various children’s attractions, ideal for children to have fun while adults can relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Without a doubt, a very special day that combines sport, fun and Christmas magic in a unique setting, making it an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Hipódromo de la Zarzuela / Photo via Pinterest

XXX Festival Grandes del Gospel

The Festival Los Grandes del Gospel Madrid celebrates its 30th edition from November 28 to December 14 in the Sala Guirau del Fernán Gómez Centro Cultural de la Villa, with an outstanding program that includes great gospel groups such as the Soweto Gospel Choir and the Mississippi Mass Choir.

Performances will take place on different dates and times, starting with the New Orleans Gospel Choir (28, 29, 30 November and 1 December at 8:00 pm), followed by the Soweto Gospel Choir (3, 4, 5 and 6 December at 8:00 pm) and the Mississippi Mass Choir (7, 10 and 11 December at 8:00 pm, 8 December at 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm). The South Carolina Gospel Choir will present Tina Turner´s Happy Days (12 and 14 December at 8:00 pm, 13 December at 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm), while the festival will close with Oh Madrid Happy Day! on 14 December at 5:30 pm with the collaboration of Bridget Bazile and the Escolanía de El Escorial. A must-see christmas plans in Madrid for 2025 for gospel music lovers in Madrid.

XXX Festival Grandes del Gospel / Photo via Pinterest

Circo Price at Christmas

Once again this year, from November 22 to January 4, the Teatro Circo Price is hosting its classic Christmas production, which in this 2024-2025 edition tells the story of Tom, Lai, Dante, Lucas and Tatín, five friends who fight to recover the spirit of Christmas.

After incredible adventures around the world, they return home only to discover that Christmas has disappeared. Together, they must do the impossible to bring it back. With music, dance, humor, songs and the best circus artists, this production has become one of the most anticipated christmas plans in Madrid for 2025.

Circo Price at Christmas / Photo via Pinterest

Contact Santa Claus at home!

Yes, you read that right! Santa Claus will know where you wonder. If you want to come to congratulate someone or give them a gift, we will deliver it directly to the door of your house or wherever we want. It doesn’t matter if the event is not a birthday or a Christmas celebration, at Perfect Venue we will always have a Father Christmas list to accompany you and reserve this product. Sometimes your beloved Santa Claus would like to surprise your family who is in town.

What is certain is that throughout the year there will be many events in which a real Santa Claus will be the special touch. Contacting one of our Noel Bearded Dads at the perfect location for your family event is easy. Simply contact us through our website, send us the information about your event and one of our elves will be in close contact to begin the process. Make sure your event is even more magical with the presence of Santa Claus!

Santa Claus at home / Photo via Pinterest

Christmas Cookie Decorating Workshop

A Christmas cookie decorating workshop like this one will teach you how to transform simple cookies into works of art with creative techniques and tips from a baking expert. You’ll learn how to create perfect icings, work with a piping bag, and design Christmas decorations, such as snowflakes and trees. At the end, you’ll take your decorated cookies home. It’s a fun activity for the whole family, regardless of previous experience, ideal for enjoying and creating special memories this Christmas!

This workshop is not only a great opportunity to learn new skills, but also to share a unique moment with your loved ones. Whether you come with children, friends, or family, the activity is designed for everyone, encouraging creativity and fun in a relaxed and festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect excuse to make this Christmas even more special, creating delicious decorated cookies that you can enjoy and give away with love!

Taller de decoración de cookies navideñas
Christmas Cookie Decorating Workshop / Photo via Pinterest

Decorate your home with Christmas decoration experts

Do you want to surprise your loved ones with a unique gift or create a festive atmosphere at home? We know the best Christmas decoration experts in Madrid who will transform your home into a true fairy tale, using lights, LED garlands, luminous figures, ornaments and more to give a magical touch to your space.

The team of designers will be in charge of choosing the perfect decoration for your home, making sure that every detail fits harmoniously with your style. In addition, if you wish, we can also decorate the facade, highlighting the beauty of your home and creating a festive atmosphere that will make the arrival of 2025 shine.

Book Christmas decoration in Madrid for private homes here now!

Christmas decoration at home / Photo via Pinterest

Christmas centerpiece decoration workshop

Yes, this Christmas centerpiece decoration workshop will give you the opportunity to learn how to create a unique and spectacular design for your celebrations, guided by a decoration expert. You will learn how to combine candles, flowers, fruits and other Christmas elements to achieve an impressive table that will be the center of attention. At the end of the workshop, you will be able to take home your own centerpiece, ready to dazzle at Christmas Eve dinner or as part of your home’s Christmas decorations.

This workshop will not only allow you to learn valuable tips and tricks on how to create Christmas arrangements, but it will also offer you a fun and creative experience. It is the perfect excuse to share time with friends, enjoy a special afternoon with your mother or sister, or even organize an unforgettable Christmas gathering. Don’t miss this opportunity to create something magical and personal for this Christmas!

Christmas centerpiece / Photo via Pinterest

Marimorena 2024. Zambombada de Madrid

The Zambombada de Madrid is one of the most traditional events in the capital, and in this event popular music becomes the protagonist through zambombas, tambourines and Christmas carols that will fill the most emblematic places in the city with the Christmas spirit, such as Calle Mayor or Plaza Oriente.

If you are looking for a plan that combines music, tradition and a Christmas atmosphere, the Zambombada de Madrid will take place on December 15 at 12:30, and will start from the Plaza de la Villa with groups from different parts of the region and nearby provinces such as Ávila.

Zambombada de Madrid / Photo via Ayuntamiento de Madrid

Madrid on Ice

4,760 m² of ice is what awaits you at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano stadium. One of the largest ice rinks in Europe will be installed in Madrid from December 21 to January 5, and, without a doubt, it is a perfect plan for the whole family to experience the winter magic in the capital.

But this is not the only thing that awaits you at the venue, it will also have a gastronomic and themed space to experience the real Christmas, as well as enjoying live shows and ice light performances. And for the little ones, children’s workshops!

Don’t miss out on your ticket and enjoy the rink, Santa Claus and the Three Wise Men’s cabins, face painting and much more.

Madrid on Ice / Photo via Ayuntamiento de Madrid

Gospel Factory

This group of singers with more than two decades of experience will make the Debod Temple vibrate on December 22 with a unique show. These singers of different nationalities have a wide range of music in their repertoire with touches of jazz, soul and even flamenco, which means that the entire audience can feel the music.

The Debod Temple, in the heart of Madrid, will become the perfect setting for a concert that starts at 8:00 p.m., just when the temple’s lighting comes into action, creating an intimate and special atmosphere. Whether you are passionate about gospel or it is your first contact with the genre, Gospel Factory has the power to move anyone who sees it.

It’s your chance to enjoy gospel and get excited!

Gospel Factory / Photo via Ayuntamiento de Madrid

Propose to her this Christmas in Madrid!

Christmas is the perfect time to take an important step in your relationship, and what better time to do it than surrounded by the magic and romance of the season. If you are looking for a marriage proposal with Christmas decorations in Madrid, we have the ideal option for you. In a space transformed into a charming setting, decorated with Christmas details that will make this moment even more special and memorable.

This package is easy to book and has all the details necessary to make the moment perfect. 

A professional photographer will be present to capture every moment, ensuring that every smile and emotion are immortalized in photos that you will treasure forever. In addition, a bouquet of fresh flowers will add a touch of love and romance, completing the proposal after the long-awaited “I do.”

The marriage proposal will take place in a private space, which will guarantee total privacy and comfort. The Christmas decoration will include “Marry Me” letters adorned with lights and festive ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere. Every corner will be carefully decorated to reflect the Christmas spirit, making this moment even more unique.

Planes navideños en Madrid para 2025
Marriage proposal with Christmas decorations / Photo via Natalia Ortiz Events

If this plan doesn’t quite convince you, you can also choose from other christmas plans in Madrid for 2025, such as a marriage proposal in Retiro Park, on a rooftop with spectacular views, at the Riu Hotel, or at the elegant Santoña Palace, where you can even decorate the stairs with Christmas details.

This 2025 begins with an engagement ring!

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