Christmas in Lanzarote: weather, traditions & what to do

One of the most unique Christmas traditions in Lanzarote is the Rancho de Pascua, a form of ancestral music that has been passed down for generations. 

Originally linked to religious brotherhoods, the Ranchos were groups of men who walked through the villages singing old melodies during Advent and the Christmas period. Their instruments were simple and handmade creating a sound that is both solemn and fascinating. Today, you can still listen to them in places like Teguise, Haría or Yaiza, where local groups keep the tradition alive. For many visitors, discovering the Ranchos is one of the most authentic experiences during Christmas in Lanzarote.

If you’re looking for truly local flavours and wondering what to do in Lanzarote at Christmas, tasting the island’s festive pastries is a must.

The most iconic are the truchas, small empanadas filled with sweet pumpkin, almonds or sweet potato. They are delicate, aromatic and tied to family gatherings — every household has its own recipe, often passed from mothers and grandmothers. You’ll find them in local bakeries, traditional cafés and Christmas markets across the island. Our recommended one are in Haria at the El Mercado. 

Enjoying a warm trucha with a coffee (or after a walk by the ocean) is one of the simplest and most delicious ways to experience Christmas in Lanzarote like a local.

Another sweet tradition that has become part of Christmas in Lanzarote in recent decades is the Roscón de Reyes. Although originally a national custom celebrated throughout Spain on the 5th and 6th of January, the Roscón has found its place on the island’s festive tables, blending seamlessly with local heritage. Round, soft and decorated with candied fruit, almonds or filled with cream or chocolate, the Roscón is a dessert that families enjoy while waiting for the Three Kings to arrive. 

Many bakeries in Lanzarote now prepare their own artisanal versions, and tasting it has become one of the most popular things to do in Lanzarote at Christmas, especially among children and younger generations. Trying a slice of Roscón — perhaps after a long walk by the sea or during a cosy evening — is a simple way to feel part of the island’s modern celebration of the festive season.

One of the most charming parts of Christmas in Lanzarote are the belenes, detailed nativity scenes that each municipality prepares with great care. 

What makes them unique is that they don’t just depict the traditional biblical story — they recreate Lanzarote itself in miniature. Volcanic cones, small houses with green and blue woodwork, salt pans, palm groves, churches, jameos, fishing boats… every detail reflects the island’s landscapes and villages. Visiting these belenes is one of the classic things to do in Lanzarote at Christmas, especially for families. We recommend you visiting the ones in Yaiza, Teguise, Haria and at the Bodega Stratvs (wine cella in La Geria).

Another highlight of Christmas in Lanzarote is Navilan, the Christmas fair held in Arrecife.
It usually includes children’s attractions, workshops, craft stalls, food booths and festive decorations. For families visiting in December and wondering what to do in Lanzarote at Christmas, Navilán offers a lively and cheerful atmosphere right in the capital, combining local crafts with entertainment.

The festive season in Lanzarote reaches its peak on the evening of 5th January, when all towns host the traditional Cabalgata de Reyes. 

Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar parade through the streets on decorated floats, greeting children and spreading joy as they pass. Whether you watch it in Arrecife, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise or any of the smaller villages, the Cabalgata is one of the most emotional and vibrant moments of Christmas in Lanzarote. For families, it’s often the highlight of the trip — and one of the most memorable things to do in Lanzarote at Christmas.