Things to Do in Buenos Aires in December: Festive Fun, Summer Vibes & Holiday Magic

Imagine this: while much of the world bundles up in scarves and sips hot chocolate, Buenos Aires welcomes December with long sunny days, lively nights, and a festive spirit that fills the city with energy. From tango under the stars to Christmas lights on grand avenues, and from rooftop sunsets to New Year’s fireworks over the Río de la Plata, December here is unlike anywhere else.

If you’re planning a holiday escape to Argentina’s capital, you’re in for a treat. December isn’t just about warm weather, it’s about celebration, color, and unique traditions that locals hold close to their hearts. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Buenos Aires in December: seasonal events, holiday highlights, romantic experiences, and practical tips so you can make the most of your trip without missing a beat.

So pack your sunglasses, leave your winter coat behind, and get ready to discover why December is one of the most magical months to experience Buenos Aires!

Book a 100% private, customizable Buenos Aires tour: Just choose a guide and message them.

Festive Highlights of December in Buenos Aires

Christmas Markets & Holiday Fairs

Buenos Aires may not have snowy Christmas villages, but it makes up for it with lively holiday fairs full of handmade crafts, music, and street food. The Plaza Francia Fair in Recoleta and the Feria de Mataderos are local favorites—perfect for picking up gifts, tasting Argentine sweets, and enjoying the festive atmosphere. These are places where locals gather, so you’ll get a feel for the city’s true holiday spirit.

Holiday Concerts & Tango with a Festive Twist

December brings a packed cultural calendar. At the stunning Teatro Colón, you may find seasonal concerts, ballet, or opera performances that feel extra magical during the holidays. For something more vibrant, Buenos Aires’ tango scene shines in December, open-air shows often pop up in plazas, and tango dinner experiences sometimes feature special holiday menus. It’s a romantic and unforgettable way to spend a December night.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Puerto Madero

If you’re in the city on December 31, don’t miss the fireworks over the Río de la Plata at Puerto Madero. Locals flock to the waterfront for a night of celebration, with the skyline lighting up at midnight. Many restaurants in the area offer special NYE dinner packages, perfect if you want a front-row seat to the festivities. Be sure to book early, as spots sell out quickly.

Tip for Travelers:
Keep in mind that many restaurants and shops close early on December 24 and 31, since Argentines celebrate with big family dinners at home. Planning ahead (and reserving a festive dinner or tango show) ensures you won’t miss out.

Seasonal Leisure: Summer in the City

Rooftop Bars with Sunset Views

In December, the sun doesn’t set until late evening—perfect for sipping cocktails high above the city. Head to Palermo or Puerto Madero, where rooftop terraces offer stunning skyline views. With warm breezes, live music, and a glass of Malbec in hand, it’s one of the most romantic ways to end a summer day in Buenos Aires. 

Open-Air Cinema & Cultural Festivals

  

Summer nights in Buenos Aires often mean movies under the stars. Parks and plazas host film screenings, music performances, and cultural events, most of them free. Even if you don’t speak much Spanish, the atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a unique way to spend an evening.

Evening Strolls in Parks & Gardens

With December temperatures hovering around 25–30°C (77–86°F), the city’s green spaces become outdoor living rooms. Take a twilight walk through the Palermo Rose Garden, picnic in Parque Tres de Febrero, or enjoy the leafy squares of Recoleta and San Telmo. Locals love to gather outdoors this time of year, and joining them gives you a glimpse of everyday life in Buenos Aires.

Cool Off in Pools & Cafés

When the midday sun gets strong, retreat to one of the city’s public pools or trendy cafés with shady patios. Many hotels also open their pools to non-guests with a day pass, giving you a refreshing way to beat the heat while still feeling a bit indulgent.

 Tip for Travellers:
Bring light clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Buenos Aires in December is all about slow afternoons and lively evenings, so pace yourself like a local: relax during the day, and head out when the city comes alive at night.

Book a 100% private, customizable Buenos Aires tour: Just choose a guide and message them.

Classic Buenos Aires Attractions with a December Twist

Recoleta Cemetery at Dusk

 
Recoleta Cemetery is a must-see year-round, but in December the long summer evenings give it a special atmosphere. Visit later in the day to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the soft golden light casting shadows across its ornate mausoleums. Afterward, you can stroll to nearby cafés for a refreshing drink.

San Telmo Market for Holiday Shopping

 
The San Telmo Market is always buzzing, but in December you’ll find even more local artisans selling holiday crafts, gifts, and decorations. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs or something festive to bring home, while also experiencing the vibrant energy of one of Buenos Aires’ most historic neighbourhoods.

Avenida Corrientes by Night

Known as the city’s Broadway, Avenida Corrientes glows brighter in December with holiday lights strung across the streets. This is the place to catch a theater show or simply soak in the atmosphere with a slice of pizza at a traditional pizzería. It’s lively, local, and full of that holiday buzz.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid on a Rainy Day

 
December brings sunshine, but also occasional summer storms. When the skies open up, there’s no better refuge than El Ateneo Grand Splendid, a former theatre turned into one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. It’s a cultural gem and a cozy way to pass a rainy afternoon.

Tip for Travellers:
Think of December in Buenos Aires as a time when the city’s classics feel a little different, the light is warmer, the markets are more festive, and the nights stretch longer. Lean into that seasonal energy and you’ll see familiar landmarks in a fresh way.

Book a 100% private, customizable Buenos Aires tour: Just choose a guide and message them.

Practical Tips for December Travellers

Weather & Packing

December in Buenos Aires means summer: expect warm, humid days averaging 25–30°C (77–86°F), with plenty of sunshine and the occasional afternoon rainstorm. Pack light clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. A small umbrella or rain jacket will come in handy for sudden showers.

 

Holiday Closures

A key detail many visitors miss: on December 24 and 31, most restaurants and shops close early so families can gather for holiday dinners. If you plan to eat out, book in advance at restaurants offering Christmas Eve or New Year’s packages. Museums and attractions may also adjust hours around those dates, so always double-check before you go.

Local Customs & Traditions

In Argentina, Christmas celebrations peak on the night of December 24. Families gather late, fireworks light up the sky at midnight, and December 25 is usually a quieter, restful day. Knowing this helps you plan: don’t expect bustling tours or shopping on Christmas Day, but do expect a warm, family-centered atmosphere across the city.

Booking Advice

December is one of Buenos Aires’ busiest months for tourism, so:

• Reserve tango shows, theatre tickets, and guided tours weeks in advance.
• Secure tables for New Year’s Eve dinners as soon as possible.
• For popular rooftop bars, call ahead; spots fill quickly in summer evenings.

Traveller’s Tip: Think of December in Buenos Aires as half-summer escape, half-holiday celebration. With a bit of planning, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: festive nights without stress, and long sunny days to wander at your own pace.

Book a 100% private, customizable Buenos Aires tour: Just choose a guide and message them.

Suggested Itineraries by Traveller Type

 For Couples

• Morning: Start with a stroll in Palermo Rose Garden or Recoleta’s leafy squares, soaking up the summer sunshine.
• Afternoon: Explore the San Telmo Market, pick up some holiday gifts, and enjoy street performances.
• Evening: Sip cocktails at a rooftop bar in Puerto Madero, followed by a tango dinner show featuring special holiday menus.
• Night: On December 31, watch the NYE fireworks over the Río de la Plata.
• Why it works: It’s romantic, picture-perfect, and full of festive charm; you’ll feel like you're stepping into a magical December in Buenos Aires.

 For Families

• Morning: Head to Parque Tres de Febrero or EcoParque Buenos Aires for outdoor fun.
• Afternoon: Visit interactive museums or enjoy street performers at Plaza Francia Fair.
• Evening: Open-air cinema or music festival suitable for kids, followed by casual family dining.

Why it works: Kids stay happily entertained, giving parents the chance to relax and soak in the festive sights.

For Solo Travellers

• Morning: Walking tour through Palermo and San Telmo, exploring street art, historic landmarks, and artisanal shops.
• Afternoon: Stop at El Ateneo Grand Splendid for a book and coffee break.
• Evening: Join a group tango class or open-air show, then wander along Avenida Corrientes for theater or a casual dinner.

Why it works: A perfect blend of cultural discovery, new friendships, and the freedom to explore, you’ll feel connected and never alone in the city.

Traveller Tip: Even if you like to mix and match, these itineraries are a gentle guide to help you wander through December’s bright days and twinkling festive nights, making sure you catch every magical moment the season has to offer.

Book a 100% private, customizable Buenos Aires tour: Just choose a guide and message them.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Buenos Aires in December, get ready, it’s a city that just buzzes with life. Picture yourself spending sunny afternoons in leafy parks, checking out cozy Christmas markets, maybe even trying a tango under the stars. And when New Year’s rolls around, the fireworks over the Río de la Plata are something you’ll never forget.

What’s cool is that it works no matter who you’re with, family, your partner, or even solo. December has this special mix of summer energy and holiday magic that you don’t find at any other time of year. With just a little planning, you can skip the stress and soak it all in leaving you with those kinds of memories you’ll still be talking about months later.

Ready to Plan Your December Adventure?

Start building your perfect Buenos Aires itinerary today:

• Reserve your tango show or New Year’s Eve dinner before spots fill up.
• Bookmark markets, rooftop bars, and evening strolls for magical summer nights.
• Explore our local guides for insider tips on holiday dining, sightseeing, and local experiences.

Book a 100% private, customizable Buenos Aires tour: Just choose a guide and message them.