December Festivals in Puerto Rico transform the island into a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and holiday magic. From historic mask parades and artisan fairs to dazzling boat shows and European-style Christmas markets, every corner of Puerto Rico comes alive with color, music, and flavor.
Visitors can wander through festive plazas, savor classic Christmas dishes, enjoy live performances, and experience centuries-old traditions that make December one of the most exciting months to explore the island. Whether you’re discovering coastal towns or exploring the mountains, December festivals in Puerto Rico offer unforgettable moments for families, food lovers, and holiday travelers alike.
Until January 6: La Feria The Park – A Magical Christmas Tradition in San Juan
Location: Hiram Bithorn Stadium, San Juan
La Feria The Park returns to light up Puerto Rico’s festive season. For more than two decades, this iconic event has marked the official start of Christmas on the island. And this year feels even bigger. A towering 100-foot Christmas tree, the tallest in Puerto Rico, shines brightly with thousands of lights, transforming the park into a glowing holiday wonderland.
Families can hop aboard the Polar Express-themed train as it circles the grounds, offering a joyful ride through dazzling displays and larger-than-life decorations. Visitors will also find classic attractions, including the beloved mini circus with two daily shows, mystery houses, thrilling rides, and countless photo-ready Christmas moments.
La Feria blends tradition, nostalgia, and excitement, making it one of the best Christmas events in Puerto Rico for families, couples, and visitors wanting to experience the island’s vibrant holiday spirit.
Must-See Highlights: The tallest Christmas tree in Puerto Rico, standing around 100 feet. Polar Express themed train journey through the park. Mini circus with two daily performances. Dazzling lights, festive décor, and photo spots everywhere.
Perfect For: Families with kids. Couples looking for Christmas activities in San Juan. Visitors seeking classic holiday traditions and festive lights. Anyone wanting a magical nighttime experience during Puerto Rico’s Christmas season.
Insider Tip: Visit right after sunset to enjoy the full brilliance of the lights. Weeknights are less crowded, making it easier to enjoy rides and take photos.
More Info: La Feria The Park
December 6–7: La Feria Bacardí en Cataño – A Beloved Puerto Rican Tradition Returns to the Bay
Location: Bahía Viva Cataño Waterfront, Cataño
La Feria Bacardí en Cataño is back and it’s bringing decades of Christmas tradition to the Bahía Viva waterfront. For more than thirty years, the original Bacardi Fair united Puerto Rican families in a joyful celebration of crafts, food, music, and culture. Now, the spirit of that classic event returns for a new generation.
This year’s edition transforms Cataño’s iconic Maritime Front into a lively holiday market. More than 100 artisans will showcase handmade crafts, while troubadours fill the air with jíbaro music. Local food vendors offer traditional Christmas flavors, from pasteles to lechón, creating a festive atmosphere packed with color, rhythm, and island pride.
With stunning views of San Juan Bay and a lively, family-friendly vibe, La Feria Bacardí en Cataño is a must-see Christmas event for anyone exploring Puerto Rico in December.
Must-See Highlights: Over 100 artisans selling handmade crafts and holiday gifts. Live troubadour performances celebrating Puerto Rican folklore. Traditional Christmas food and drink vendors. A festive waterfront setting facing the San Juan skyline. A nostalgic revival of a beloved Puerto Rican Christmas fair.
Perfect For: Families searching for authentic Christmas events in Puerto Rico. Visitors wanting artisan markets and cultural music. Food lovers exploring Puerto Rican holiday dishes. Anyone who wants a festive, open-air celebration along the bay.
Insider Tip: Arrive before sunset to enjoy artisan shopping in daylight, then stay as the waterfront lights up at night. Parking fills quickly, consider arriving early or using rideshare.
More Info: Municipio Autónomo de Cataño
December 12–14: Festival del Macabeo en Trujillo Alto – A Legendary Puerto Rican Fritter Celebrated for 40 Years
Location: Centro de Gobierno Municipal de Trujillo Alto, Calle Muñoz Rivera, Trujillo Alto
The iconic Festival del Macabeo returns to Trujillo Alto for its 40th anniversary. This beloved event honors the macabeo, a crispy, savory plantain fritter stuffed with meat that has become a culinary symbol of the town. First created in the early 20th century by Carmen Romero, the macabeo grew from a family recipe to a community staple, passed down through generations and crafted with unmatched tradition and flavor.
This annual festival brings together local vendors, live music, cultural entertainment, and, of course, endless variations of the famous macabeo. It’s one of Puerto Rico’s most delicious December traditions.
Must-See Highlights: Dozens of vendors preparing fresh macabeos. Live music, cultural shows, and community entertainment. A celebration of Trujillo Alto’s culinary history and heritage.
Perfect For: Food lovers seeking authentic Puerto Rican flavors. Travelers exploring December festivals across the island. Families wanting a lively, local culinary event.
Insider Tip: The most popular macabeo stands sell out quickly. Arrive early to sample as many versions as possible.
December 13: San Juan Christmas Boat Parade – A Dazzling Parade of Lights on San Juan Bay
Location: Bahía Urbana, Muelle 6, Avenida Manuel Fernández Juncos, San Juan
The San Juan Christmas Boat Parade is one of Puerto Rico’s most magical December traditions. What began in 2009 with just 19 participating boats has grown into one of the most anticipated holiday events on the island. Every second Saturday of December, spectators gather along Bahía Urbana to watch a glowing fleet sail across the bay, each boat illuminated with creative Christmas lights, festive decorations, and joyful holiday spirit.
The parade begins at 6:00 p.m on Saturday December 13, offering a breathtaking nighttime display that blends nautical beauty with Puerto Rico’s vibrant Christmas culture. It’s a spectacular visual celebration the whole family can enjoy.
Must-See Highlights: Dozens of boats decorated with Christmas lights and creative themes. Stunning views of San Juan Bay glowing with holiday magic. A cherished tradition drawing visitors from across the island.
Perfect For: Families and couples seeking festive December events. Visitors wanting a unique Christmas experience by the water. Photography lovers looking for dazzling holiday visuals.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a waterfront spot at Bahía Urbana. The best viewing areas fill up quickly, especially near golden hour.
More Info: San Juan Christmas Boat Parade
More info: Municipio De Trujillo Alto
December 20–25: Gran Mercado Navideño en San Juan – A European-Style Christmas Market in the Heart of San Juan
Location: Parque Luis Muñoz Rivera, San Juan
The Gran Mercado Navideño brings the charm of European Christmas markets straight to Puerto Rico. For six festive days, Parque Luis Muñoz Rivera transforms into a holiday village filled with food vendors, live music, seasonal décor, and cozy photo spots, including the chance to meet Santa Claus.
This open-air market offers extended hours, free admission, and a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for holiday strolls. With twinkling lights, festive flavors, and joyful energy, it’s one of the best Christmas experiences in San Juan.
Must-See Highlights: European-style market stalls with food, crafts, and gifts. Live music and holiday entertainment. Christmas décor, photo ops, and visits with Santa.
Perfect For: Families seeking Christmas activities in San Juan. Food lovers exploring holiday flavors. Visitors wanting European-style Christmas markets without leaving the island.
Insider Tip: Visit at night for the full glow of the lights. Remember: coolers are not allowed, and Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) closes early at 7:00 p.m.
More Info: Gran Mercado Navideño
December 27–28: Festival de las Máscaras de Hatillo – A Vibrant, Colorful Christmas Tradition in the North
Location: Hatillo, Puerto Rico
The Festival de las Máscaras de Hatillo is one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic holiday celebrations. Held every December 27-28, this legendary event fills the streets of Hatillo with a massive parade of traditional masks, elaborate costumes, lively characters, and nonstop Christmas music. Rooted in centuries-old folklore, the festival transforms the town into a whirlwind of color, rhythm, and joyful chaos.
Visitors can savor classic Puerto Rican Christmas foods, enjoy live music, and experience a unique cultural tradition that attracts thousands from across the island. It’s bold, it’s loud, and it’s unforgettable.
Must-See Highlights: The massive parade featuring vibrant masks and traditional costumes. Street performers and folkloric characters. Typical Puerto Rican Christmas dishes and local vendors. A high-energy celebration that takes over the entire town.
Perfect For: Travelers seeking authentic cultural festivals in Puerto Rico. Lovers of folklore, history, and traditional celebrations.
Insider Tip: Arrive early, this is one of the island’s most popular Christmas events, and roads fill quickly. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a full day of parades, music, and movement.
