Best Places to Visit in Paraguay for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, Paraguay transforms into a vibrant hub of holiday cheer, offering expats and digital nomads a unique blend of South American warmth and traditional Christmas spirit. From the bustling streets of Asunción to the charming towns dotting the countryside, there are numerous places where one can soak in the festive atmosphere. Here are some of the best spots to visit in December to experience the holiday spirit in Paraguay.

Asunción's Villa Morra Neighborhood

In the heart of Paraguay's capital, the Villa Morra neighborhood lights up with festive decorations and a lively atmosphere. The streets are adorned with twinkling lights and Christmas ornaments, creating a magical setting for evening strolls. Shopping centers like the Paseo La Galería and Shopping del Sol become focal points for holiday shopping and entertainment, with seasonal displays and events that captivate visitors. In early December, the neighborhood often hosts Christmas parades featuring colorful floats and merry music, drawing crowds from across the city.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the traditional Paraguayan Christmas food, such as chipa guasu, a savory corn cake, which can be found at local eateries throughout Villa Morra.

Encarnación's San Juan Neighborhood

Encarnación, known as the "Pearl of the South," offers a charming Christmas experience in the San Juan neighborhood. The area becomes a festive wonderland with elaborate nativity scenes, known as "pesebres," which are a significant part of Paraguayan Christmas traditions. The waterfront along the Paraná River provides a picturesque backdrop for holiday celebrations, and the neighborhood's Christmas market is a must-visit, offering handcrafted gifts, decorations, and delicious treats. The market typically runs throughout December, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy the festive offerings.

We Recommend: Sample the "dulce de mamón," a sweet papaya dessert that is a festive favorite at the Christmas market in San Juan.

Luque

The city of Luque, just outside Asunción, is renowned for its artisanal workshops, especially those producing harps and guitars, which are integral to Paraguayan music. During the holiday season, Luque's main plaza is transformed into a Christmas fairytale, complete with a large tree and nativity scene. Artisans sell their musical instruments alongside Christmas crafts, making it the perfect place to find unique gifts. The city often hosts concerts featuring traditional Paraguayan music, creating a joyous atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of the season.

We Recommend: Attend a live performance of Paraguayan folk music at the plaza and experience the cultural essence of a Paraguayan Christmas.

San Bernardino

Nestled beside Lake Ypacaraí, San Bernardino is a popular summer retreat that also shines during the Christmas season. The town's German heritage is reflected in its holiday celebrations, with European-style Christmas markets and decorations. The main square becomes a hub of activity, with vendors selling seasonal foods, crafts, and gifts. The town also hosts a variety of cultural events, including choirs singing Christmas carols in both Spanish and German, adding to the multicultural holiday experience.

We Recommend: Try the "kuchen," a German cake that is a specialty at the Christmas markets in San Bernardino, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Areguá

Areguá, the strawberry capital of Paraguay, is another delightful destination for holiday festivities. The town is famous for its pottery and the Christmas season sees local artisans creating beautiful ceramic nativity scenes and ornaments. Areguá's cobblestone streets and colonial architecture provide a picturesque setting for its Christmas market, where visitors can purchase handcrafted goods and indulge in strawberry-based treats, a local delicacy.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the "alfajores de frutilla," a strawberry-filled cookie that is a highlight of Areguá's Christmas market.

Caacupé

Caacupé, a spiritual center for Paraguayans, is particularly vibrant during December due to the Feast of the Virgin of Caacupé, which takes place on December 8th. While this is a religious event, the town is enveloped in a festive mood, with thousands of pilgrims and visitors arriving to partake in the celebrations. The streets are lined with vendors selling traditional foods, crafts, and religious items. The town's decorations and the spirit of the people make it a unique place to experience Paraguayan faith and culture during the holiday season.

We Recommend: Experience the spiritual side of Christmas in Paraguay by attending the mass at the Basilica of Caacupé and joining in the local festivities.

Filadelfia

In the heart of the Chaco region, Filadelfia is home to a large Mennonite community that brings its own traditions to the Christmas season. The town's holiday spirit is characterized by simplicity and reflection, with modest decorations and a focus on community gatherings. Christmas concerts and events often feature choral music and the retelling of the Christmas story, providing a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere for visitors seeking a quieter holiday experience.

We Recommend: Attend a Christmas concert at one of the local churches to enjoy the harmonious blend of Paraguayan and Mennonite holiday traditions.

Each of these destinations offers a unique perspective on Christmas in Paraguay, blending local customs with festive cheer. Whether you're looking for lively markets, cultural events, or a peaceful retreat, Paraguay has something to offer every expat and digital nomad during the holiday season.