Christmas in Bilbao 2026: markets, shows and ideas for your getaway
Information reviewed on 3 November 2026. A selection of activities with dates published by their organisers for the 2026–2027 season.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Christmas in Bilbao: finding a special gift at a craft market, booking an evening at the theatre, sharing pintxos or spending an afternoon doing something the little ones will love. Best of all, you can combine these experiences with time to explore the city at your own pace.
If you’re planning a December break or a holiday over Christmas and into early January, here are some dates to add to your diary. Check session times and ticket availability before planning your visit.
The dates at a glance
| Activity | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas market | Doña Casilda Park | 4 December 2026–5 January 2027 |
| Gabonart craft fair | Arenal riverside | 11 December 2026–5 January 2027 |
| PIN Christmas children’s fair | BEC, Barakaldo | 12 December 2026–5 January 2027 |
| Gabonak Arte | Azkuna Zentroa | 26–30 December 2026 and 2–3 January 2027 |
| The Book of Mormon | Arriaga Theatre | Selected performances between 3 and 30 December 2026 |
| The Nutcracker, Kyiv Ballet | Euskalduna Palace | 8 December 2026, 7 pm |
Doña Casilda Christmas market: gifts and local flavours
According to Bilbao Ekintza’s published plans, Doña Casilda Park will host the Christmas market from 4 December to 5 January. It’s a lovely place to discover local products and find a little something to take home from your trip.
Opening hours on the first day are scheduled for 5 pm to 10 pm. Hours vary throughout the season: on 24 and 31 December and 5 January, the market will open only in the morning, from 11 am to 2 pm. It will be closed on 25 December and 1 January.
See the information published by Bilbao Ekintza.
Gabonart: arts and crafts beside the Old Town
From 11 December to 5 January, Gabonart brings arts and crafts to the Arenal riverside. Combine your visit with a walk through the Old Town and a leisurely lunch: a simple way to enjoy Bilbao without rushing.
The organisers have announced opening hours of 11 am to 2.30 pm and 5 pm to 8.30 pm. On 24 and 31 December, the fair will open only in the morning. It will be closed on 25 December and 1 January.
The PIN at BEC: a Christmas outing for families
The Parque Infantil de Navidad (PIN), a Christmas fair for children and families, will take place from 12 December to 5 January at Bilbao Exhibition Centre in Barakaldo. Remember to allow time for the journey from Bilbao when planning your day.
The fair offers rides, games and family activities. General opening hours are 11 am to 8 pm, with variations on certain days. On 24 and 31 December and 5 January, it will close at 5 pm. It will be closed on 25 December and 1 January.
Check PIN opening hours, prices and tickets.
Gabonak Arte: discover, play and create
Azkuna Zentroa celebrates the season through culture with Gabonak Arte, its festival of artistic experiences for children and families. The announced dates are 26–30 December and 2–3 January.
The programme brings together theatre, dance, music and play. Recommended ages, performance languages and admission arrangements vary by activity, so choose the options that best suit your family before booking.
Explore the Gabonak Arte programme.
A musical theatre getaway: The Book of Mormon
The Arriaga Theatre is staging The Book of Mormon between 3 and 30 December. Its irreverent humour makes it an option for couples or friends looking for a cultural city break.
Book a performance and round off the evening with dinner or a walk through the Old Town. Check the theatre’s website for individual performance dates, times and the language of the production before booking. Performances do not necessarily take place every day within this period.
See performance times and tickets at the Arriaga Theatre.
The Nutcracker for an early December break
The Kyiv Ballet has announced a performance of The Nutcracker on 8 December at 7 pm at Euskalduna Palace. Tchaikovsky’s music adds a festive touch to an early December getaway.
Find out more about the performance and official tickets.
When should you visit Bilbao?
If you’re visiting over Spain’s early December holiday period, you can combine the Doña Casilda market with a performance at the Arriaga Theatre or The Nutcracker on 8 December. Gabonart and the PIN open later in the month, so bear that in mind if they’re your main reasons for travelling.
From 12 December, you can visit both markets and the PIN. To enjoy Gabonak Arte as well, choose one of its scheduled dates in late December or early January. Public holidays bring closures and changes to opening hours, so leave time for walks, good food and a little rest.
Hotel or apartment: choose your Christmas stay
At Spirit Hotel Gran Bilbao, you’ll find spacious rooms and options for couples, friends and families. Its buffet breakfast is a great way to fuel up before heading out to explore the city.
Discover Spirit Hotel Gran Bilbao.
If you prefer having your own kitchen and living room, Spirit Apartamentos Atxuri offers one- and two-bedroom apartments so you can enjoy your stay at your own pace.
Discover Spirit Apartamentos Atxuri.
Plan your getaway with up to 18% off stays of two nights or more on selected dates. Check availability and rate conditions when booking. The activities mentioned are organised independently and are not included in your accommodation.
