I’ve been getting lots of questions about Christmas in Cyprus—whether it’s worth visiting during the holiday season and if there are any special events. So, I decided to write a detailed post about everything happening in Cyprus this Christmas.
Let me start by saying that Cyprus isn’t the first destination that comes to mind for Christmas, especially if you’re seeking the classic European vibe with grand markets and impressive displays. However, if you’re looking for a warm-weather escape from colder climates, excellent hotels, heated pools, charming villages, and a light-hearted Christmas atmosphere—Cyprus delivers. The festive spirit here is lovely, with events mainly geared toward families with kids (but not exclusively).
Holiday Schedule and Closures
Most Christmas events in Cyprus start in mid-November and run until early January. Be aware that during the actual holiday dates—especially December 24–26, December 31, and January 6—many shops, as well as some cafes and restaurants, are closed. If you plan to visit during these dates, it’s worth noting that not all places will be open.
Christmas Shopping and Sales
Most sales begin at the end of November with Black Friday and continue through December for Cyber Monday and Christmas promotions. It’s a great opportunity for holiday shopping and snagging deals.
Christmas Villages in Cyprus
Each year, eight villages in Cyprus are selected to host festive Christmas activities, decorations, and events. This year’s villages are:
- Agros
- Deryneia
- Fikardou
- Kalopanagiotis
- Kiti
- Kyperounta
- Laiki Geitonia
- Lefkara
The Christmas villages will operate from November 23, 2024, to January 6, 2025, on weekends and public holidays. From December 23, 2024, to January 6, 2025, they will be open daily.
For detailed information about each village and what activities are available, visit the official Cyprus Tourism Organization website.
If you’re wondering which village to visit, my personal favorite is Lefkara. It’s charming, and I recommend even staying overnight there. I’ve written a detailed blog post about Lefkara (not specific to Christmas), which you can check out for more ideas on what to do and where to stay.
Christmas in Larnaca
Christmas Market
Every year, Larnaca hosts a Christmas market with over 200 stalls selling souvenirs, food, and crafts. The festive atmosphere in the city, especially in St. Lazarus Square, is delightful, with a decorated Christmas tree and lights across the town. For more details .
- Dates: December 6–8, 2024
- Friday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 3:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Entry fee: €2.50 (free for children under 12).
- Photo with Santa Claus: €5.
We visited this market two years ago with my daughter, Maya, and had a great time. We stayed at Quality Lodge, just a 5-minute drive from the market. The lines at the entrance were long, but they managed it efficiently, and we only waited about 10–15 minutes.
Christmas Wonderland in Larnaca
On October 25, Larnaca opened its “Christmas Wonderland” in Europe Square on the Finikoudes Promenade. This family-friendly park features rides, live performances, sweet treats, and games, mostly suitable for kids aged 3–8. We visited last year and had a wonderful time. Directions .
For updated details, check their Facebook page.
Christmas in Limassol
Marina Lighting Ceremony
On November 23, 2024, Limassol Marina will host a grand ceremony to kick off the holiday season, featuring the lighting of a 12-meter-tall Christmas tree.
- Time: Starts at 4:00 PM.
- Activities: Christmas market, kids’ crafts, music and dance performances, and Santa Claus with gifts for children. For more details.
We attended this event last year. While the tree was impressive, it was quite crowded, and the space felt a bit small for the number of visitors. Still, it’s worth visiting for a quick look before exploring the marina and promenade.
Christmas Festival at the Limassol Municipal Garden
From December 11–15, there will be a Christmas event featuring free face painting, photos with Santa, and characters like Mickey and Minnie.
- Entry fee: €5.
- Directions
Limassol Mall & Anexartisias Street
The Limassol Mall will host Christmas activities for kids starting November 25 and throughout December. For updates, check the mall’s social media page. On Anexartisias Street, you’ll find festive decorations, a Christmas tree, and weekend market stalls selling waffles, mulled wine, and kids’ train rides.
Things to do in Limassol
Limassol with kids
Recommended hotels in Limassol
Christmas in Paphos
International Winter Fair
On November 23, the International Winter Fair will be held at the International School of Paphos from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Entry is free and includes live performances, DJ music, kids’ activities, face painting, and a charity raffle with over 100 prizes. More information.
Peyia Christmas Market
On December 3, a small market will operate in Peyia from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. More information.
Things to do in Paphos
Paphos with kids
Recommended hotels in Paphos
Christmas Festival at CyHerbia Botanical Park
On December 14–15, the CyHerbia Botanical Park will host a magical Christmas festival. Highlights include:
- A Christmas Maze
- Elf games
- Meet-and-greets with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch
- Magic shows
- Creative workshops
- A Christmas market featuring unique gifts and delicious winter treats
Entry tickets cover all activities, and guests will also receive a complimentary cup of warming winter tea.
The festival runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and offers various creative workshops, such as making Christmas ornaments, soaps, candles, and more. For more details.
Final Tips & Summary
While Christmas in Cyprus offers a different vibe than the classic European experience, it still provides a charming and festive atmosphere, especially for families. Highlights include the Christmas villages, city markets, and family-friendly events. For those traveling without kids, exploring the beautifully decorated Christmas villages and strolling through city centres is a delightful way to soak up the holiday spirit.
Most large hotels in Cyprus decorate for Christmas and host festive activities. For example, during our stay at Parklane Hotel in Limassol, Santa Claus visited with gifts, and the overall atmosphere was magical.
Finally, many malls and playgrounds also offer special Christmas-themed activities for children. Be sure to check their social media pages for schedules and updates.
Cyprus may not have the traditional European Christmas charm, but its relaxed atmosphere, special events, good weather and cozy decorations make it a wonderful choice for a unique and memorable holiday season.
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Relocation to Cyprus – why did we choose to move to Cyprus?
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Our top restaurants and bars in Larnaca
Cyprus: Itinerary in Cyprus – Recommendations for accommodation, restaurants and attractions
Recommended hotels and resorts in Paphos
Recommended restaurants in Limassol
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