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Newcomer Christmas in Buenos Aires

Christmas here feels a bit underwhelming. Aside from a tree or two in the upscale malls, there aren’t many decorations or festivities to enjoy. If it weren't for the Colombians and Venezuelans putting up Christmas lights in their apartment patios, it might be easy to miss that it's the holiday season. However, I do appreciate the efforts of those communities to bring some festive spirit to the area!
 
I understand that it can be different for some people. Personally, I really enjoy the holidays here. It might depend on the area or neighborhood you’re in. Last year, I was invited to spend Christmas at the home of a local friend who lives in Haedo, in the suburbs, and I can assure you that the vibe and the people are completely different. There were families gathered, music, a festive atmosphere, and lots of food. At least that was my experience, and I truly enjoyed it.
 
I understand that it can be different for some people. Personally, I really enjoy the holidays here. It might depend on the area or neighborhood you’re in. Last year, I was invited to spend Christmas at the home of a local friend who lives in Haedo, in the suburbs, and I can assure you that the vibe and the people are completely different. There were families gathered, music, a festive atmosphere, and lots of food. At least that was my experience, and I truly enjoyed it.
Christmas is very much a family thing here. If you are lucky enough to be invited to one of the family celebrations , you will have a great time1
 
Christmas is very much a family thing here. If you are lucky enough to be invited to one of the family celebrations , you will have a great time1
Yes, some hotels have set Christmas dinners and restaurants too but if you are fortunate enough to know someone here a party or meal at a local family is the best.

It can get busy with tourists here. Many snowbirds come down to BA because it's hot here when it's very cold back home. We see a lot of tourists from Canada and the USA this time of year. Europeans too.
 
Christmas is very much a family thing here. If you are lucky enough to be invited to one of the family celebrations , you will have a great time1
This is what I found. Christmas is very boring in BA. Or at least I thought so. Many places were closed and the places that are usually have expensive dinner packages for Christmas or New Year's Eve. I would head somewhere else for this time of year if you want more of a festive atmosphere
 
This will be my second Christmas here, and I’m happy because I’ll spend it with friends. Argentinians definitely have partying in their blood, but I feel like they’re not as used to going out to celebrate like in other countries. Here, it’s more family-oriented,yes, with lots of food, music, and partying, but in homes. By the way, here’s a tip on a place with beautiful Christmas decorations!

 
I might come during that time. I don't know anyone well enough to get invited but what restaurants would you recommend @GlasgowJohn for Christmas or NYE?
GlasgowJohn might have other recommendations. Like he said, most locals celebrate it with their families. Big parties.

It's important to remember that Christmas Eve many restaurants are closed or have limited hours. Christmas Day tends to have more options available. For Christmas Eve, it's advisable to make reservations in advance, as some restaurants may require pre-payment and have special holiday menus.

My friend is coming then and he researched a bit. Here is what he told me based on his research what is open on Christmas Eve.
  1. Las Cabras
  • Address: Fitz Roy 1795, 1414 Buenos Aires
  • Known for Argentine cuisine and steakhouse
  • Good ambiance for locals and tourists
  • Live music on some nights
  1. Los Remanseros
  • Address: Costa Rica 3990, C1176 Buenos Aires
  • Serves Argentine cuisine
  • Good value for money, with affordable steak options
  1. La Parolaccia
  • Multiple locations in Puerto Madero, Belgrano, Palermo, Recoleta
  • Open on Christmas Eve
  1. Roux
  • Open on Christmas Eve
  1. SottoVoce
  • Open on Christmas Eve
  1. Fervor Brasas
  • Open on Christmas Eve
  1. Elena Restaurantes
  • Open on Christmas Day
  1. LIMA Estilo Nikkei - Recoleta
  • Open on Christmas Day
  1. Nuestro Secreto Restaurante
  • Open on Christmas Day
  1. Pony Line Bar
  • Open on Christmas Day
  1. Veredita de Palermo
  • Open on Christmas Day
 
Christmas is very much a family thing here. If you are lucky enough to be invited to one of the family celebrations , you will have a great time1
Christmas time is not a good time for tourists. I don't understand why they like to come this time. Very slow here. City is slow. Time for family. Maybe for escape the cold weather only.
 
For Christmas dinner in Buenos Aires, several restaurants are open, offering a range of special menus, I know about these places because I have been for Christmas and New Year, including vegan options:

La Mar in Palermo is known for its Peruvian cuisine and will likely offer a special Christmas menu with fresh seafood dishes


Biasatti in Belgrano specializes in Italian dishes, offering a variety of festive plates like vitel toné and porchetta, along with classic Italian desserts such as tiramisú


Hierbabuena Vegan in San Telmo offers a unique vegan Christmas menu, including a tripack of holiday-themed vegan donuts, available for pickup or delivery on December 24th



I recommend making reservations in advance, as these places can fill up quickly.
 
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