10 Most Fabulous Places to Spend Christmas
in South America
Christmas is a time for magic and wonder, a time to celebrate, be merry and act like a child again. Christmas is different everywhere in the world and while that does not mean celebrating the holiday in one place is better than the other, there are some places in particular that make the holiday all the more special. South America is a huge place with some fantastic areas to spend your Christmas holiday.
1. Paraty, Brazil
Located between Rio and Sao Paulo, this little city may not sound like much, but if you are after a romantic and beautiful Christmas then this is the place to go. The Portuguese architecture will don twinkling lights and with easy access to the rainforest and the backdrop of the white, sandy, pristine beaches, it will be a Christmas holiday that you will remember for a long time.
2. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Christmas in Buenos Aires resembles New Years Eve in many other countries. Complete with fireworks, bonfires, firecrackers, blasting music, chanting and the list can go on. If you’re not prepared for it, it could be frightening, but in reality celebrating Christmas in Buenos Aires is riveting. This is a brand new Christmas experience full of excitement and partying. If you are looking for something a bit more exotic and crazy, then Buenos Aires is your place.
3. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
This list would not be complete without the most popular city in one of the biggest countries in South America. Full of nativity scenes, lights draped across streets and Christmas trees erected in nearly every square, Christmas here is truly a delight.
4. Lima, Peru
In the weeks leading up to Christmas in Lima, you will find plenty of Christmas trees and lights and holiday cheer in most stores – perfect for getting you excited for a cheerful holiday. On Christmas Eve, the churches in the city hold mass at around 10 p.m.
and this is followed by an incredibly beautiful firework display. After the fireworks, enjoy some delicious traditional Peruvian delicacies that you would never have at home during Christmastime.
5. Santiago, Chile
Santiago is a city that feels very European during Christmas because of its popular Christmas market in Praza da Quintana. With more than 50 stalls dedicated to delicious Chilean food, crafts and gifts, the lights and atmosphere make it romantic and beautiful. You can even go ice-skating in Alameda Park or enjoy the stunning Santiago Cathedral draped in lights enhancing its splendor.
6. Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Bolivia is most known for its intricate and beautiful nativity scenes and midnight masses on Christmas Eve leading into Christmas Day. If you are looking for a more spiritual and magical Christmas than one that is about partying or a good time, then Santa Cruz is the place for you.
7. Cuenca, Ecuador
The Christmas pageant in Cuenca, also locally called Pase del Niño Viajero, is the biggest Christmas festivity in the whole country. There is a parade, dancing, live music and Christmas cheer. It may not be what you are used to, but it is all about remembering the journey made by Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem and spending time with friends and family.
8. Caracas, Venezuela
Much like Santa Cruz and Cuenca, Caracas celebrates Christmas very spiritually, which can make it a magical time to visit during this special, joyful time. Go roller skating Christmas mass with the locals, try local holiday food and celebrate with constant music and laughter with the backdrop of the mystical mountains.
9. Bogota, Colombia
You might not think of Bogota as being a particularly special place to spend Christmas but you would be wrong. Bogota has some of the most breathtaking Christmas lights in the entire southern hemisphere. Nearly every building will be draped in them as well as any trees lining the streets. And do not forget about the fireworks and Christmas lights along the Medellin with a circus theme complete with carnival rides.
10. Asuncion, Paraguay
As the capital of Paraguay, Asuncion is a spectacular place to celebrate this special holiday in the southern hemisphere. Not only is there a small Christmas market to mark the occasion, but the lights strewn all over the city are magnificent. And do not forget about the light shows on the main government buildings in the days leading up the Christmas – that is a pretty special experience.
Celebrating Christmas abroad does not always feel super festive, but if you choose one of these excitingly different places to spend your holiday you will not be disappointed.
