The onset of Christmas is heralded in many Tenerife municipalities by the activation of festive lights, decorations, and multicoloured illuminations. These elements transform the streets, instilling a Christmassy ambiance and lifting the spirits of residents. Each town council in Tenerife independently manages its festive lighting, employing a diverse array of decorations annually to capture the essence of this special season in various squares, streets, and roundabouts.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna features some of the Canary Islands’ most impressive Christmas lighting, yet it’s not the only Tenerife municipality known for its splendid illuminations. Here’s a showcase of Tenerife’s most stunning festive lights:
SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
This year, Santa Cruz, Tenerife’s capital, is bustling with Christmas activities. The Plenilunio event next weekend marks a highlight, although it might face disruptions due to a storm front forecasted by AEMET (Spanish Meteorological Agency). The city is vibrantly illuminated, adorned with millions of light bulbs and garlands, creating a magical atmosphere for the festive season.
SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LAGUNA
San Cristóbal de La Laguna is synonymous with Christmas lights. The switch-on event, ‘La Noche en Blanco’, held on Saturday, 25 November, attracted thousands of visitors. The festive streets, filled with the aroma of roasted chestnuts, offer a delightful escape from the chill of La Laguna.
LA OROTAVA
La Villa de La Orotava commenced its Christmas celebrations on Friday, 24th November, with splendid decorations and the unveiling of a nativity scene in the Town Hall square. This scene is a part of the municipality’s renowned Route of Nativity Scenes. Visiting La Orotava during this period, especially over the Constitution Bank Holiday 2023, promises a memorable family Christmas experience.
LOS REALEJOS
Christmas in Los Realejos kicked off on Thursday, 23rd November. The town is adorned with over 800 lighting elements and approximately 2,000 metres of energy-efficient LED garlands, along with various Christmas-themed decorative pieces spread across the municipality.
ARONA
The festive spirit arrives in Arona on Wednesday, 29 November, featuring an exciting programme and the traditional Christmas lights switch-on. The event promises to bring the magic of Christmas to life in the municipality.