The familiar melodies will once again fill the heart of Madrid, heralding the approach of the winter holidays. Starting at the end of November, the El Corte Inglés facade on Preciados will transform into a giant animated stage, where fairy-tale characters come to life as the streets are flooded with light and music. Cortylandia 2025 promises to be one of the season’s most dazzling events, drawing families and tourists to the windows of the iconic department store.
This tradition, which began back in 1979, has long become an integral part of city life. Each year, craftsmen and artists spend nearly 12 months creating a unique show—from the first sketches to the final installation. This year, the grand opening is set for November 22, coinciding with the city’s holiday lights switch-on. The finale will take place January 5, on the eve of the Reyes Magos parade.
What visitors can expect at Cortylandia 2025
The gigantic installation, spanning 40 meters wide and 14 meters tall, will once again amaze with new characters and special effects. Every detail is the result of meticulous handcraft: metal frames, covered with lightweight materials, are turned into moving figures, while a sophisticated lighting system creates a truly magical atmosphere. This year, organizers promise new musical performances and unexpected visual surprises.
Shows are held daily, except for December 25 and January 1. On other days, performances can be seen in the morning and evening: from 12:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 21:00. On special dates — December 24, December 31, and January 5 — the evening sessions end earlier. Each show lasts about 15 minutes, but there are always many people wanting to watch, so it’s best to arrive early or choose less popular time slots.
How to Get There & Visitor Tips
Due to heavy crowds and traffic restrictions in the city center, organizers recommend using the metro or city buses. The nearest stations are Callao and Sol, as well as EMT bus stops and Cercanías commuter trains. It’s better to leave your car outside the central streets to avoid traffic jams and parking issues.
Every year, Cortylandia becomes a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Here, children sing familiar songs, and adults are reminded of their own childhoods. The magical atmosphere and sense of wonder fill the streets, turning an ordinary day into a celebration. This isn’t just a show—it’s part of Madrid’s cultural identity, uniting generations and creating the spirit of a true winter fairy tale.
