As a time of tradition and family gatherings, Christmas in new, unfamiliar surroundings can be daunting particularly when you consider a completely different lifestyle. From warming pubs to more-warming temperatures on the coast, Ibiza is world’s away from the typical Christmases many of us are used to. Whether you’re visiting during the festive season or it’s your first Christmas in this new place you call home, there’s countless of activities to get into. Read our top tips and places to experience here…
Soak up the festive atmosphere at San Antonio’s Christmas Markets
Thought traditional Christmas markets were reserved for cities like London, Edinburgh and Prague? Think again. From early December to the start of January, San Antonio puts on quite the show at Paseo de las Fuentes. Located in the heart of the town, a spectacular Christmas tree is positioned on the fountain square with numerous alpine-style wood stands offering visitors the chance to indulge in a spot of Christmas shopping.
Selling seasonal gifts and Christmas decorations from local artisans and makers, this is a fabulous place for unique and creative presents. With plenty of festive food and drink also available to purchase, shoppers can take a break in-between their browsing to truly savour the magical atmosphere and further attractions. Open throughout the day and also some evenings, it’s the perfect activity for the whole family especially on dates where local musicians are invited to entertain the crowds.
Drink good food and wine at Festa des Vi Pagés
Though not a Christmas event as such, the annual Festa des Vi Pagés is one of the island’s most interesting festivals and is definitely not one to miss. Held in the small village of Sant Mateu - an area of fertile land perfect for harvesting wine - Festa des Vi Pagés is a country wine festival which celebrates the process of Ibizan wine production, and specifically the famous ‘vi pagés’ (country wine). Organised by the Association of Neighbours of Sant Mateu, local wine producers are invited to showcase their wines with visitors able to taste various whilst also vote for their favourite, too. In addition to the wine tasting, the event usually hosts live music, traditional dances (ball pagés) and the chance to sample sobrassada and botifarra, traditional Ibizan sausages with bonfires to grill your own selection.
Get your skates on at Reina Sofia Park
Always a festival focal point, Ibiza’s annual ice skating rink is a fantastic activity for all the family. This year, the ice rink will be hosted at Reina Sofia Park (a change from its usual location at Plaza Antoni Albert i Nieto) and organised by the City Council of Eivissa. Having opened on 2nd December, the magical pop up will invite visitors through to 7th January with the offer of live, seasonal performances to further bring some festive cheer to the island.
Toast Festivities at Casa Lhasa’s Christmas Eve Lunch
With Christmas Day itself often reserved for family time, there’s nothing we like more than getting the party started early with friends on Christmas Eve. As some of the island’s best restaurants and beach clubs open their doors to host special lunches and music, you’ll be spoilt for choice to say the least.
One of our favourite spots, Casa Lhasa is hosting a delicious Sunday Roast in their sun-soaked garden (or cosy interior if the weather turns to rain) within the beautiful village of San Lorenzo. Diners can enjoy a sumptuous feast of roast pork washed down with the restaurant’s selection of natural wines from some of the world’s greatest holistic wine makers.
Casa Lhasa, Carrer Sant Llorenç, 2 Sant Llorenç de Balà fia, Ibiza
Participate in Ibiza’s Christmas Day Swim
For those seeking a more active Christmas Day, why not consider participating in the annual La Copa Nadal de Ibiza swim. Starting at noon on Christmas Day, courageous swimmers are invited to brave the extremely cold waters of San Antonio Harbour in the 350-metre dash to the Nautical Club. A fantastic challenge that brings residents together, it’s brilliant to even head to the harbour to watch and cheer on the crowds… if a drier Christmas is more your thing!
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