Not feeling Christmassy yet? Ibiza's festive Christmas markets could be just what you need to get you in the mood.
Christmas shopping in Ibiza is a different experience. You won't be traipsing around huge, sterile malls listening to piped music. Instead, you'll be browsing through a wide range of stalls finding clothes, jewellery, crafts and lots of gift ideas, many individually designed.
German-style tradition
At Las Dalias in San Carlos the regular Saturday winter market transforms into a Christmas market between Friday 16 December and 5 January. Open every day during the Christmas period except 25 December and 1 January, this is the place to enjoy a spot of retail therapy whilst sipping on a tasty glüewein or grazing from the food stalls.
You can spend a couple of hours choosing between beautiful bags, Japanese-style lanterns, handmade notebooks, chunky necklaces and much more. This is the place to pick up unique presents for people who love to stand out from the crowd.
It's not just about presents either. With all of the parties happening this month, you will need to be looking snazzy and dance-floor ready so it's a great opportunity to get yourself a new outfit or two as well.
Hippie vibes
Another option in the village of San Juan is the Christmas Bazaar which is happening on December 18 from 09.00h to 16.00h. With a distinctly hippie vibe the stalls offer many artisan products such as locally brewed real ales, handmade boots, and original driftwood art.
Live music is played throughout the day and if you hear the pulsing sound of a Turkish drumbeat you may be lucky enough to be treated to a spirited performance from the belly dancer - a bit random but lots of fun!
Beneath the Christmas Tree
If you are in or around Ibiza Town, be sure to make your way to Plaza Antoni Albert i Nieto where you will find the town's big Christmas tree and Christmas market. Wander through the illuminated streets of Boulevard Abel Matutes and browse for gifts whilst munching on Ibizan spicy sausage washed down with the local wine.
The market runs until 8 January from 11h to 22h and for a taste of a more traditional Christmas you might also like to visit the nativity scenes in the churches of San Telmo, Santa Cruz and Rosario.
There are lots of market options on Ibiza but these are some of the biggest and best. They won't fail to get you in the Christmas spirit and you are guaranteed to come away with lots of goodies.
Go armed with a fat wallet and be ready to shop till you drop and remember that Ibiza's markets take place all year round. Visit our markets page to find one near you.
WORDS | Anne McPherson
