This weekend, Cartagena transforms into a true hub of winter festivities. The city is filled with a festive atmosphere: the streets sparkle with lights, and craft fairs fill the squares. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a packed program — from traditional Christmas routes to concerts and family workshops. There’s something for everyone, with events taking place all across the city.
This year, Cartagena is aiming to impress with its scale: more than 300 events are spread across all neighborhoods and cultural centers. The holiday spirit will shine until January 6, with major events kicking off in the coming days. The main Juan XXIII square has become a hotspot for craft lovers, hosting a Christmas market where you can find unique handmade gifts and souvenirs. Along the Alameda avenue, guests can enjoy themed activities and photo zones.
Friday program
On Friday, December 12, Cartagena welcomes guests from early morning. The craft market and holiday activities on Alameda are open from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. In the evening, the city fills with music: at the historic Puertas de Madrid, Inés Ananda and the Coral Discantus choir will perform, while the church Sagrado Corazón hosts a concert by Cuarentuna de Cartagena. The Ramón Alonso Luzzy cultural center features a charity evening, and at the Circo Apolo theater in El Algar there will be a comedy show with elements of hypnosis.
Saturday events
Saturday, December 13, promises to be just as eventful. The market and festive venues remain open, and themed excursions are organized for children and adults alike. In the morning, you can take a boat tour of the bay to see the city from the water and learn more about its Roman past. The Museo del Teatro Romano and Museo del Foro Romano host family workshops and interactive activities. In the evening, concerts will be held across the city, ranging from a symphony orchestra at the Santa María de Gracia church to a performance by Medina Azahara at Auditorio El Batel. Flamenco fans can enjoy an evening with Pastora Galván at Mare Nostrum restaurant on the waterfront.
Sunday for the whole family
On Sunday, December 14, the holiday festivities continue. The market on Juan XXIII Square and the activities on the Alameda are open to all. The first roller-cross tournament takes place at the Cabezo Beaza sports complex, while a charity drum flash mob will be held in García Pagán park. History buffs can take a guided tour along the Lucrecia Prima route, starting from Casa de la Fortuna. Throughout the city, you’ll find concerts, theater performances, and comedy shows, while in El Cañar, locals celebrate the Virgen de la Luz festival.
A city in lights
Cartagena is being completely transformed for the winter holidays. San Francisco Square, Los Juncos Park, the port, and Ícue Square are turning into enchanting holiday scenes. Over 800 light installations, 30,000 decorative plants, and giant figures create a unique atmosphere. The city features seven temporary exhibitions, and the main nativity scene with more than 700 figurines is on display in San Francisco Square; visitors can stop by daily until January 6.
The festive program encompasses all aspects of city life: from sports and music to traditional crafts and family entertainment. Cartagena invites everyone to experience a magical atmosphere and become part of a winter fairy tale.
