On one of the most famous beaches in Gran Canaria, you’ll find the Sand Nativity Scene of Las Canteras Beach. It’s visited annually by more than 200,000 people. This nativity scene, built on the beach spanning over 1,000 square metres, is one of the island’s main attractions during the Christmas season. Its figures, sculpted by national and international artists, can reach up to 5 metres in height. It is an unforgettable sight.
If you want to know everything there is to know about the Sand Nativity of Las Canteras Beach, this article is for you. We’ll also give you some tips and recommendations to make your visit to Gran Canaria even more interesting.
History and tradition of the sand nativity of Las Canteras
The Sand Nativity of Las Canteras Beach began in 2006. Since then it has only grown and established itself as a global-scale event. It is the third most visited museum space in Spain, surpassed only by the Prado and Reina Sofía museums. The amazing growth of the event has brought many international artists to Gran Canaria. This has also increased the quality of the displayed works.
However, this nativity scene is much more than just a display of artistic skill. It’s also a charitable cause. The event raises over 20,000 euros annually through donations, and a significant food drive is organised to support people in need. It is a truly beautiful event in every sense, making it a highly recommended plan if you’re in Gran Canaria during this time of year.
Who can see the sand nativity at Las Canteras
If you’re lucky enough to visit Gran Canaria between 5th December 2024 and 8th January 2025, you’ll be able to see this magnificent nativity scene made of sand, depicting traditional Christmas scenes such as the birth of Jesus, the Annunciation, and the journey of the Three Wise Men, along with several other typical characters of the season. As a tribute to the location where this nativity scene is built, the artists also recreate some of the island’s most famous landscapes, such as Roque Nublo, the Caldera de Tejeda, and other easily recognisable local elements.
Activities and events
The Sand Nativity Scene of Las Canteras can be visited by anyone, making it a fantastic family activity. It also offers workshops for all ages, where you can learn how to model and create sand sculptures like a pro, perfect for impressing your friends and family on your next beach holiday. One of the most special attractions of this nativity scene is its proximity to the sea, and the year-round good weather in the Canary Islands means that even the bravest can take a dip in the Atlantic. Swimming at Christmas is a truly unique experience!
Tips for visiting the nativity at Playa de Las Canteras
We want your experience visiting the Sand Nativity Scene of Las Canteras and the island of Gran Canaria to be the best it can be, so here are some tips and recommendations:
- Visit the nativity during the day to fully appreciate the intricate details of the sculptures, but make sure to return at night as well. The nativity scene is illuminated, and for some, it’s even more spectacular under the lights.
- Take advantage of your stay in Gran Canaria to visit the island’s must-see spots: Roque Nublo, the Maspalomas Dunes, Tamadaba Natural Park, Guayadeque Ravine, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Puerto de Mogán. There are more must-see places, but these are our top picks.
The visit is free, but monetary and food donations are welcome, as they go to the city’s soup kitchens.
Stay near Las Canteras Beach to make access to the Sand Nativity Scene as easy as possible. Plus, this area offers plenty to see and do, so you’ll be in a prime location.
Explore La Isleta. This peninsula in the north of the island is just a short distance from Las Canteras Beach and offers many reasons for a visit: 16 volcanoes, the oldest fort in the Canary Islands, archaeological remains, and fantastic beaches for surfing, to name a few.
Gran Canaria is for you!
This island has so much to offer that it should always be on every traveller’s future trip list. The Sand Nativity Scene at Las Canteras Beach is a must-see, but we can’t forget to mention other points of interest like Roque Nublo, the Maspalomas Dunes, or Tamadaba Natural Park. Add them all to your Gran Canaria itinerary and come enjoy this slice of paradise, any time of the year.
Have you heard of Gran Canaria Stays? We have a fantastic selection of accommodations for the perfect holiday in Gran Canaria: apartments, bungalows, houses, villas, and studios for all types of groups in several prime locations across the island, including Las Canteras, so you can see the Sand Nativity Scene in person. Find what you’re looking for in your accommodation and book now!