When December arrives and the cold begins to timidly appear, Peñíscola is tinged with Christmas. The city, which already has a medieval charm that is hard to beat, is dressed with millions of lights, Christmas displays, markets, and an atmosphere so welcoming that it makes you want to get lost in its streets.
If you’re wondering what to see in Peñíscola at Christmas, get ready because here we’re going to tell you absolutely everything so that your visit goes perfectly and you’ll want to come back every year.
Why is Christmas in Peñíscola so famous?
From the end of November to the beginning of January, the city shines with more than 1.5 million low-energy lights, a monumental nativity scene next to the historic Bufador, beautiful decorations in the Papa Luna fortress, and a fantastic atmosphere.
Thus, Peñíscola has been gaining Christmas prominence in recent years, and it is no coincidence. In 2021, it already received the Ferrero Rocher award, which gives it the distinction of “The Town of Lights.”
A preview of the Christmas decorations in Peñíscola
The magic begins even before the December long weekend, because the official lighting is prepared at the end of November. With this starting gun, the streets are filled with people, music, and the smell of hot chocolate everywhere.
Although the city has a Christmas feel, the most special point is, without a doubt, in the area of the Peñíscola Castle.
Here, a huge nativity scene is installed—in the Portal de Sant Pere, on Atarazanas street—, carefully crafted, where every detail is taken care of so that you can have a good time discovering scenes, characters, and different areas that recreate the story of the Nativity.
The giant star that crowns the castle is another of those essential symbols of Peñíscola at Christmas; you’re going to see it from practically all points of the old town, and it’s impossible not to be guided by it.
In addition to the castle, Plaza Santa María becomes a key point thanks to a huge Christmas tree and a route of lights that reaches the entire historic center. The contrast between the medieval architecture and the Christmas lights is beautiful.
Take the opportunity to stroll along Calle Mayor, go to the Bufador area, and then go up to the castle to enjoy panoramic views of the town covered in lights.
The most anticipated events of Christmas in Peñíscola
One of the reasons why Christmas in Peñíscola is so special is the number of events that are organized during December. We are going to tell you about the essential points that you have to visit.
Christmas Market
If you’re thinking of coming, try not to miss the Christmas Market that is installed in the Plaza Bous and Plaza Santa María. In addition to the stalls, storytellers, workshops, shows are organized every day, and visits from Santa Claus, the Grinch, and the Three Wise Men are scheduled. To know exactly what days it is open, its hours, and what activities are prepared, look at the Christmas agenda of the City Council.
And what’s in this market? You’ll find local crafts, toys, traditional sweets, gastronomic stalls, and a perfect atmosphere to stroll and enjoy the decorations.
At the end of the year—from December 27 to January 1—, the Medieval Market is held in this same location, another event where you will be able to find a lot of stalls with curious objects, minstrels, knights, music, and shows that will transport you a few centuries back.
Santa Claus and Three Kings Parade
And no, Christmas in Peñíscola is not understood without its parades.
Santa Claus’s parade starts on the 25th at 6:00 PM and runs through the main streets of the municipality—Plaza de Santa María, Avenida de la Mar, Avenida d’Espanya, and Calle del Mestre Bayarri until reaching the Palacio de Congresos—with his sleigh, carols, and a retinue full of elves and Christmas characters.
But, without a doubt, the great event of the holidays is the Three Kings Parade, the most anticipated by all! Every January 5 at 6:00 PM, Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar make their triumphal entry into Peñíscola riding spectacular floats, accompanied by pages, musicians, dancers, lights, drums, and—of course—mountains of candies that fly from one side of the route to the other.
The departure is from the port, passing through Calle de Llevant, Marcelino Roca, Avenida de la Mar, Avenida d’Espanya, Plaza Constitución, Calle del Mestre Bayarri, and ending at the Palau de Congresos.
Show «The Magic of Christmas»
Another event that you have to write down is the videomapping «The Magic of Christmas», which is projected on the north wall of the castle. Seeing how the medieval facade is illuminated with colors, animated figures, and Christmas scenes is a plan that is worthwhile even if you see it for several days in a row.
More things to do in Peñíscola at Christmas
The climate of Peñíscola in December is another point in favor of enjoying the holidays here; the winters are mild, with temperatures that usually range between 7 and 15°. It is not extremely cold, the wind is not usually exaggerated, and many mornings you can even sit on a terrace in the sun to have a coffee or a hot chocolate. Of course, don’t forget to bring warm clothes, as it cools down quite a bit at night.
And with this climatological panorama… the best thing is to enjoy outdoor plans!
Walking along the Peñíscola Promenade is still a classic. Walking in front of the coast while seeing the illuminated castle from afar is an image that you will hardly be able to forget.
You can also go to the Bufador, a unique natural phenomenon where sea water enters through a cavity and produces that particular sound that always surprises, especially the little ones.
Are you taking a getaway?
If you’re wondering what to see in Peñíscola at this time, the answer is short but complex, because there is literally everything. From its illuminated castle to the shows, family plans, a monumental nativity scene, the medieval market, and much more.
Why do we say this? Because in addition to everything that Christmas in Peñíscola offers, you will be able to continue enjoying the rest of the town’s attractions: the best beaches—even if only for a walk—, the best spas in Peñíscola, its restaurants, and also places like the Jardín del Papagayo, the Torre Badum, and other beautiful towns like Alcalá de Xivert.
So, if you are looking for a different, cozy, beautiful, and plan-filled Christmas destination, Peñíscola is a fantastic choice. Of course, book your accommodation now, as they fly at this time. And if you want it to be as incredible as the Christmas experience, do it with Orange Costa.
