Vigo Illuminates the Holiday Season with 115 Million Christmas Lights

This past Saturday, November 16, 2024, the city of Vigo in Galicia, Spain, officially kicked off the Christmas season with the grand illumination of its streets. The event, which has become a beloved tradition, saw the city come alive with a staggering 115 million lights.

The Lighting Ceremony

The ceremony took place at 8:00 PM local time, marking the beginning of the festive period in Vigo. The main location for the festivities was Porta do Sol, a central hub that transforms into a winter wonderland each year. Here, a giant Christmas tree, adorned with vibrant lights and accompanied by traditional Christmas music and artificial snow, was the centerpiece of the celebrations.

Festive Attractions

Vigo's Christmas festivities are not limited to the lighting ceremony. The city offers a plethora of attractions that cater to all ages. A Ferris wheel, located near the Christmas Market, is one of the most sought-after attractions, offering breathtaking views of the city from high above. Additionally, numerous festive scenes with Christmas motifs, including a Santa Claus House, a sleigh with reindeer, and a towering snowman, are scattered throughout the city center.

Christmas Market

The Cíes Market, situated in Parque da Alameda next to Praça Compostela, is the largest Christmas Market in Vigo. This market boasts approximately 100 stalls, offering unique crafts, decorative items, and a variety of local food. The market also features a Ferris wheel and, in previous years, artificial snow machines that operated several times a day, adding to the magical atmosphere.

Community and Tourism

The Christmas celebrations in Vigo are a significant draw for tourists, with the city expecting to welcome over three million visitors during the festive season. The event is a testament to the community's spirit and dedication to making the holiday season special for both locals and visitors.

Competing for the Tallest Christmas Tree

This year, Vigo is once again in the running for having one of the tallest Christmas trees in Spain, competing with the city of Badalona. This friendly competition adds an extra layer of excitement to the holiday festivities.

Vigo's Christmas celebrations are a must-see for anyone living in or visiting Spain during the holiday season. With its stunning lights, vibrant markets, and festive atmosphere, Vigo is the perfect place to experience the magic of Christmas in Spain.