Madrid on Christmas Day and NYE

Hi Manisha,

I recently read here that Puerto del Sol is the place to be for New Year's Eve. Much like Times Square in New York. Apparently, there is a Spanish tradition that consists of eating a grape with each of the twelve clock bell strikes at midnight of December 31 to welcome the New Year.

I also know there is a Christmas market in Plaza Mayor. My sister was just there and said it was quite lively: https://www.esmadrid.com/en/whats-on/plaza-mayor-christmas-market

Thank you! This is so helpful.

Puerta del Sol still has construction going on, though it looks much better than last time I checked the Webcam https://www.skylinewebcams.com/en/webcam/espana/comunidad-de-madrid/madrid/puerta-del-sol-tio-pepe.html

A lot of restaurants will be open (albeit not necessarily all, many small ones will be closed).

For the rest, most everything will be closed: https://www.abc.es/espana/madrid/abci-esta-abierto-25-diciembre-madrid-201912240112_noticia.html

Since mobility services are increased, it's a great day to plan a "DIY walking tour" across Madrid or even take a train to visit something around Madrid, but again, open-air activities such as establishments, shops, museums... are closed-

Outdoor places one can visit can include Retiro Park, Alcalá gate, Plaza de Cibeles, Neptune fountain, Plaza de España, Toledo bridge and gate, view the Tenple of Debod, see the Royal Palace and gardens from the outside, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta Del Sol. A couple interesting sculptures along Paseo de Recoletos include the Lucky Frog (Rana de la Fortuna) and Botero’s Lady with Mirror (Mujer con espejo). Both are near each other and near the monument to Christopher Columbus/Plaza Colón. Additionally, the Catedral de la Almudena and other churches will be having services.

Manisha, how was it? Would love a trip report!