Belén de Arena

The Belén de Arena of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a spectacular sand-sculpted Nativity scene set on the golden sands of Las Canteras Beach. Each Christmas season, this cultural and artistic event transforms the beach into a magical open-air gallery that blends holiday tradition with a tropical twist. Thanks to Gran Canaria’s mild winter climate – around 23°C even in December – visitors can enjoy this Christmas display under the sun , making it a holiday experience truly unlike any other.

The Sand Nativity tradition began in 2006 . Today, it opens each year from early December until the first week of January. Over those weeks, renowned sand sculptors from around the world craft elaborate biblical scenes – often incorporating touches of Canary Island scenery – using more than 2,000 tons of sand to create their masterpieces. Admission is free, and the exhibition draws over 200,000 visitors each year. This spectacular Sand Nativity has cemented its status as a must-see Christmas attraction in Gran Canaria, and even one of Spain’s most popular holiday events.