Christmas under the Sun: The Sand Nativity of Las Canteras

A Nativity That Broke the Mold

The Sand Nativity of Las Canteras is much more than a Christmas installation: it is an artistic, charitable, and touristic project that has placed Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on the world map of winter events. Its uniqueness lies in three key aspects:

• Its character as a large open-air museum.

• Its strong power of attraction.

• Its international and media reach.

While other cities showcase traditional nativity scenes, only Las Canteras can boast a creation of this scale, built on one of Europe’s best urban beaches and enjoyed in short sleeves. Visiting the Sand Nativity in the Canary Islands means experiencing Christmas in a different way, where mild weather and artistic talent come together in harmony.

History and Origin of the Sand Nativity of Las Canteras: From Local Initiative to Global Icon

The history of the Sand Nativity dates back to 1987, when artist Etual Ojeda, with support from the Las Palmas City Council, created the first sand nativity in collaboration with the Friends of Las Canteras Association. That pioneering project marked the beginning of a tradition that now transcends borders.

Since 2006, the event has been held every year without interruption under the artistic direction of Miguel Rodríguez Pérez, based on three core pillars: art, heritage, and the environment. Today, it is organized by Turismo LPA, with the collaboration of the Cabildo de Gran Canaria and private companies such as Go Beyond, responsible for planning and production. This partnership between institutions and the private sector has made the Sand Nativity of Las Canteras one of Spain’s most significant cultural and touristic events of the winter season.

The Masters of Sand: Ephemeral Art with an International Signature

The Sand Nativity of Las Canteras is the result of the talent of world-renowned sculptors. Each year, more than ten international artists transform the beach into a spectacle of ephemeral art, allowing the public to watch the creative process up close. Around 2,000 tons of golden sand are compacted with water to form the sculptures — a process as fascinating as the finished result.

Featured Artists

• Canarian talent: Etual Ojeda, Paco Arana, Bentejuí Ojeda, Aarón Ojeda, and Jonay Ruiz, among others.

• International artists: Sue McGrew (USA), Johannes Hogebrink (Netherlands), Fergus Mulvany (Ireland), Leonardo Ugolini (Italy), Aleksei Diakov, and Alexey Shchitov (Russia).

Each sculptor brings their own style, from realism to the dreamlike, but all share a common language: sand, art, and emotion. The result is a collective masterpiece that turns every edition of the Sand Nativity in the Canary Islands into a must-see event for lovers of outdoor art.

Themes and Structure of the Sand Nativity: More Than a Traditional Scene

The Nativity covers about 1,500 square meters near La Puntilla, with multiple themed scenes. Each year, the sculptures change — except for the Nativity of Jesus and the Arrival of the Three Wise Men — to pay tribute to Canarian life, traditional trades, and the neighborhoods of Las Palmas. Some of the most iconic scenes include The Carpenter and The Fishermen, as well as tributes to Canarians living abroad.

Accompanied by an original soundtrack by composer Enrique Mateu, the visit becomes an immersive experience of art, music, and sea — right in the heart of Las Canteras.

Impact and Recognition of the Sand Nativity of Las Canteras

The Sand Nativity of Las Canteras is one of the most visited events in Spain in December, drawing over 260,000 visitors per edition. It ranks as the third most visited exhibition space in the country, behind only the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum.

• 65% local visitors, and the rest European and mainland Spanish tourists.

• Average temperature: 23°C in December, perfect for enjoying outdoor art.

• Wide media coverage and a strong presence on social networks, which consolidates it as one of the main winter attractions in the Canary Islands.

This success strengthens the city’s cultural image while boosting tourism, local business, and Gran Canaria’s visibility as an alternative, sustainable winter destination.

A Social Soul That Goes Beyond the Sand

Entrance to the Nativity is free, but visitors are encouraged to make voluntary donations. All proceeds go to the social dining programs of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which have exceeded €18,000 in some editions. This social commitment shows that the Sand Nativity of Las Canteras is not only about art — it’s also about solidarity and community. It’s a beautiful example of how art can become a tool for helping others, reinforcing the most genuine Christmas spirit.

Why Live in Las Canteras All Year Round

The surroundings of the Nativity — the Las Canteras neighborhood — are among the most desirable places to live in Gran Canaria. With its cosmopolitan atmosphere, seaside lifestyle, and high quality of life, it represents the perfect balance of nature, art, and wellbeing.

At Engel & Völkers Gran Canaria, we know the charm of this area well. Here, every sunrise over the Atlantic and every Christmas under the sun turn seafront properties into real treasures. Buying a house in Las Canteras means choosing a lifestyle where art, climate, and culture come together in a unique way.

Discover our homes in Las Canteras and experience waking up every morning facing the ocean with Engel & Völkers Gran Canaria.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where is the Sand Nativity located? On Las Canteras Beach, next to Plaza de Saulo Torón (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria).

When can it be visited? During December and the first days of January. Free entry.

How can you get there? You can reach it by local bus (guagua) or on foot from the city center. There are nearby parking areas and accessible routes.

How much sand is used? Approximately 2,000 tons of golden sand.

Why is it so important? Because it is the third most visited “museum” in Spain in December and a unique artistic and touristic symbol in Europe, combining art, tradition, and social commitment under the Atlantic sun.