In 2025, Madrid has decided to delight residents and tourists with an exceptionally early start to the New Year’s season. On November 22, the streets of the capital will light up with millions of lights—an entire week earlier than last year. Organizers promise not only a traditional light show, but also plenty of new surprises that will turn the city into a true winter wonderland.
This year, the scale of the illumination is impressive: across Madrid, 13 million LED bulbs will decorate more than 240 locations in each of the 21 districts. The central point of the festivities will be Cibeles square, where renowned racing driver Carlos Sainz will switch on the lights. Spectacular light displays will also appear in other iconic venues: a giant nativity scene will be set up in Las Cortes square, while a 22-meter fir tree will rise beside the Metropolis building. In the Nuevos Ministerios area, visitors will be greeted by an enormous glowing candle that you can go inside and take photos.
This year, city officials have prioritized sustainability: all the lights are energy-saving, and the costs of electricity will be covered entirely by the contractor. The total budget for holiday decorations exceeds six million euros. Children and their parents are in for a special treat: Plaza Mayor will feature illuminated panels with artwork created by elementary school students. The best works from last year will also adorn the streets, while renowned Spanish designers have created signature light installations for the main avenues.
New art installations and festive trees
This season, Madrid will be adorned with 13 large Christmas trees, each becoming its own photo spot. The tallest one—at the intersection of Gran Vía and Calle de Alcalá—will be decorated with hundreds of blue ornaments and thousands of twinkling white lights. In the Atocha area, three giant angels surrounded by shimmering trees will appear. The nativity scene by the Congreso de los Diputados will reach 12 meters high, and in place of the old installation at the Ventas bridge, a huge figure of baby Jesus will now stand.
Special attention has been given to new forms of entertainment this year. A 12-meter candle will be installed at Nuevos Ministerios, which you can walk inside. Visitors will find a light show and plenty of opportunities for unusual photos. For the first time ever, the total length of festive lights will reach 157 kilometers—that’s enough to go from Madrid to Toledo and back, twice.
Christmas markets and winter fun
As ever, festive bazaars will be a major draw for locals and visitors alike. The most famous market at Plaza Mayor opens November 27 and will run until the end of December. Over a hundred stalls will offer ornaments, souvenirs, and seasonal treats. Other markets will pop up at Plaza de España, Plaza de Isabel II, and Juan Goytisolo—and Plaza de España will also feature an outdoor ice rink.
Those looking for unique gifts can head to the craft market on Paseo de Recoletos, where 150 artisans will showcase their creations. In the Madrid Río area, near Casa del Reloj and Matadero, another cozy market will open, while by Puente del Rey a whole winter park will offer sledding hills and an ice skating arena.
Major shopping centers are joining in as well: El Corte Inglés on Castellana has been welcoming shoppers and spreading holiday cheer since November 13. These festivities will continue until January 6, and some events will last right through the end of the Christmas holidays.
Illumination schedule
On weekdays, the lights will be switched on at 6 p.m. and turned off at midnight, while on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays, they’ll stay on until 1 a.m. or even later. On special nights, such as December 31, the city will sparkle all the way till morning.
Madrid is gearing up for a season of wonder that’s set to be brighter and more exciting than ever. The city invites everyone to soak up the festive atmosphere and discover new light trails, art installations, and winter attractions.
