Switching on the Christmas lights in Palma used to be a simple affair: a push of a button, the lights came on and people marveled before disappearing into the winter cold. Today, everything is bigger, louder and - well - more expensive. This year, Palma is investing a whopping 526,000 euros in the magic of lights. On Saturday, 24 November 2024, the Advent season in the island's capital will be ushered in with a colorful event. Those who attend will experience far more than just a few twinkling bulbs.
Christmas lights Passeig de Born Palma / ©Lantsch Fotografie
The history of the Christmas lights in Palma
The Christmas lights in Palma have a fascinating history that dates back to the 1960s. Back then, the city began to decorate its streets and squares with simple fairy lights. What once began modestly developed over the years into an ever larger and more spectacular event. Today, the Christmas lights in Palma are a real highlight of the festive season and attract thousands of visitors every year. The city has managed to turn a simple tradition into an impressive spectacle that dazzles the senses and warms the heart. The development of the Christmas lights in Palma shows how tradition and innovation can complement each other wonderfully.
Three relocations, one message from another world
From 7pm, the city becomes a stage as three parades parade through the streets of Palma. The theme: futuristic, colorful, extraterrestrial. Whether the futuristic theme and the bright costumes match the Christmas spirit is a matter of taste - they certainly bring color and fantasy.
Route 1: From Carrer Riera via Carrer Unió to Plaça Joan Carles I.
Route 2: Start at Parc Sa Feixina, past Passeig Sagrera, finish at Avinguda Antoni Maura.
Route 3: From Carrer Sant Miquel through Plaça Major to the Town Hall Square.
Spectacle on three squares
The parades end around 7.40 pm - but not the hustle and bustle. Three central squares in Palma are transformed into stages for unique performances:
Rathausplatz: Moving sand pictures tell of the origin of the universe. How does this relate to Christmas? Let us surprise you.
Plaça Mercat: Circ Bover from Sineu performs acrobatic masterpieces while children can submit their wish lists.
Plaza de la Reina: A dance theater brings fairy tale characters to life, accompanied by live music and impressive shows - a highlight for the youngest visitors.
The importance of Christmas lighting for the city
The Christmas lights are much more than just a visual delight for Palma - they are a symbol of the community and an important part of the Christmas season. Every year they bring people together to enjoy the festive atmosphere and share the anticipation of Christmas. The Christmas lights are also an important economic factor for the city of Palma. It attracts numerous visitors who not only admire the lights, but also liven up the local stores and restaurants. The festively illuminated streets and squares create a magical atmosphere that captivates both locals and tourists alike, transforming the city into a sparkling winter wonderland.
The grand finale: lights on!
At 8.30 pm comes the moment everyone is waiting for: the countdown to the switching on of the Christmas lights in the center of Palma. The lights shine simultaneously in 226 streets of the city, 15 more than last year. Newly designed lighting elements adorn the neighborhoods and bathe Palma in a warm, festive light.
The nativity scene: a calm counterpoint
If you prefer something more contemplative, you should visit the famous nativity scene in the town hall, which can be seen from Friday. Between the colorful spectacles, it is a quiet place that recalls the traditions of the Christmas season.
A feast for all the senses - or too much of a good thing?
Of course, the question remains: does Christmas have to be so loud, so colorful, so overwhelming? For some, the light spectacle is the epitome of anticipation, for others it is a dazzling example of the urge to offer more and more. But one thing is certain: Palma knows how to open the Advent season with a bang - and inspire with it.
On a discovery tour
in
Palma de Mallorca
The future of Christmas lighting in Palma
The future of Christmas lighting in Palma promises even more glitz and glamor. The city is planning to further develop and improve the Christmas lights in the coming years. New light installations and shows are set to make the Christmas lights even more spectacular and amaze visitors. There are also plans to integrate the Christmas lights even more into the city center to bring people together even more and enhance the festive atmosphere. All in all, the future of Christmas lighting in Palma looks very promising - a shining example of how tradition and innovation can go hand in hand to make the Christmas season an unforgettable experience.
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