THE Christmas in Madrid It is a visual spectacle that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The city transforms into a magical place, full of bright lights, traditional markets and a festive atmosphere which invades its streets. Christmas lighting has become one of the main attractions of these holidays, with decoration that extends throughout the city, from the main avenues to the most picturesque corners. In 2024, Madrid is preparing to offer one of the highlights of Christmas lights the most impressive in its history.
This year, technological innovations stand out, with the use of efficient LED bulbslike the creative proposals of Spanish designers and children, who participated in the creation of Christmas decorations. With the return of traditional Christmas markets and countless activities to enjoy as a family, the Spanish capital is preparing to experience a vacation full of light, magic and joy.
Christmas lights in Madrid
The switching on of Christmas lights in Madrid will take place on Thursday November 28, 2024marking the start of the Christmas period in the capital. The event will take place at 7:00 p.m., at Puerta del Sol, in the presence of the national football coach, Luis de la Fuente, who will be responsible for lighting the streets, accompanied by the mayor, José Luis Martínez. .
This year the Christmas lighting in Madrid will have more than 230 decorated points throughout the city, including avenues, squares and iconic buildings. 7,100 light garlands, 121 cherry trees and several large fir trees will be installed. One of the main novelties will be a huge angel in Plaza Colón, with more than 36,000 light points, which will replace the Great Nativity, which will be moved to the intersection of Gran Vía and Alcalá.
Madrid is committed to more sustainable lighting design, using latest generation LED bulbs which guarantee greater energy efficiency and lower environmental impact. In total, nearly 12 million bulbs will be installed and efforts will be made to reduce light pollution to preserve the night sky.
In addition, the Town Hall has integrated the talent of children who, through a school drawing competitionhave created lights that will be part of the city’s Christmas decorations. There will also be the collaboration of prominent Spanish designers, who have designed some of the most spectacular installations this Christmas.
The lights will stay on until January 6, 2025with special hours: Sunday to Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., and Fridays and Saturdays until 1:00 a.m. On special dates such as Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, hours will be extended until the early morning.
Naviluz
Once again, Madrid offers a magical experience with the Christmas lights tour aboard the Naviluz bus, available from November 29 to January 6except December 24, 31 and January 5. The bus departs from Calle Felipe IV, near the Prado Museum, and ends the tour in Plaza Cánovas del Castillo. The journey takes around 50 minutes and allows you to enjoy the impressive Christmas decorations that light up the city.
He price It varies depending on the time slot: between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., adults pay €10, seniors over 65 and children aged 7 to 11 €5, and babies (0-6 years) can travel for free. After 9:00 p.m., prices are lower.
He itinerary It can vary depending on traffic or weather, but it generally passes through some of the most emblematic areas of the capital, such as Gran Vía, Puerta de Alcalá and Plaza de Cibeles. Additionally, there are alternative routes in case of breakdowns due to special events. It is recommended to arrive five minutes early to avoid crowds.
Christmas markets
Christmas in Madrid is synonymous with tradition and magic, especially for its famous markets spread throughout the city. One of the most emblematic is the Plaza Mayor Christmas Marketwhich will open from November 28 to December 31, 2024, with 104 stalls offering everything from nativity scenes and Christmas decorations to joke items.
In addition, the city center is home to other markets, such as that of Juan Goytisolo Squarenear the Reina Sofía Museum, where you can shop and enjoy an ice rink. In the Plaza de España, they celebrate “La Navideña” (November 23 to January 6), which includes a market and activities like ice skating.
He Recoletos Walk hosts the Madrid Craft Fair (December 1-30), with more than 150 Spanish artisans, offering unique products such as jewelry, ceramics and toys. Other places not to be missed are the English Christmas market at St. George’s Church (December 14) and the El Corte Inglés Castellana market (November 14 to January 5). If you prefer covered markets, don’t miss the cat market (December 14 to January 6) or the Mercado del Encanto (December 6 to 8).
