The holidays are usually synonymous with spending: gifts, dinners, decorations, travel… But if your card starts to need a break there are some free plans to enjoy Christmas in Madrid. Just strolling through the streets of the center is already an experience in itself, but there are also some Christmas hotspots that do not charge admission to pass.
See the Christmas lights
The turning on of the Christmas lights is a classic in Madrid during these dates. Starting November 28, the streets are illuminated with spectacular decorations that you can enjoy strolling through places like Gran Vía, Plaza de España or Paseo de la Castellana.
📍Location: various locations
Christmas market in Plaza Mayor
This famous Christmas market opens from November 28 to December 31 and has more than 100 booths where you will find Christmas decorations, figures for the nativity scene, crafts and toys. Strolling through its stalls is a totally free and very traditional experience.
📍Location: various locations
Cortylandia
The free children’s show par excellence in Madrid. It is held on the facade of El Corte Inglés de Preciados from late November until January 5. It is a show of lights, music and animated characters that dazzles the youngest of the house (and the older ones too).
📍Location: Calle de Preciados, 3 (downtown)
Three Kings Cavalcade
On January 5, Madrid hosts one of the largest and most traditional parades in the country. You can enjoy the free parade through the main streets of the center, with floats full of color and music. You can watch it on TV while having a roscón or you can watch it live on the Paseo de la Castellana. In addition, each neighborhood of Madrid has its own representation of their Majesties of the East.
📍Location: Paseo de la Castellana
Visit the Nativity Scenes
Madrid offers several free exhibitions of traditional nativity scenes in places like the Royal Palace, the City Hall, emblematic churches or the Casa de Mexico. These nativity scenes are authentic works of craftsmanship, some of them centuries old that you can visit free of charge.
📍Location: various locations
XXXVII Crafts Market Fair of the Community of Madrid
From December 1 to 30, in the Paseo de Recoletos, will be held again, in its 37th edition, this market with more than 150 artisans offering unique and handmade products, from jewelry to ceramics or textiles. No need to buy, you can come to get ideas for future gifts.
📍Location: Paseo de Recoletos
Christmas Concerts
It is already a tradition that every year at Christmas in the Almudena Cathedral some free concerts are held. Sometimes they are dedicated to classical carols or choirs specializing in religious music. Admission is free until full capacity is reached and they usually take place in mid-December, although a date has not yet been set for this year.
📍Location: Calle de Bailén, 10 (Downtown)