With Christmas looming a little over a month away, the fervour builds for the renowned illumination ceremony in Madrid. The date has been firmly etched: Thursday, November 23rd at seven in the evening. Delve below as we elaborate on the significance and primary attributes of this event, unveiling the sheer splendour of Madrid’s Christmas lights.
Madrid’s Christmas lights
As the festive season draws near, a cascade of multi-coloured lights blankets the cityscape. From the winding streets to the iconic edifices and bustling squares, millions of lamps illuminate the surroundings, meeting stringent criteria for environmental preservation, low energy consumption, and optimal energy efficiency. This conscientious approach ensures that the joyous spectacle not only delights but also safeguards the environment and the well-being of the city’s inhabitants.
Madrid boasts a plethora of globally acclaimed festivals. Yearly, thousands flock to the city, drawn by its vibrant atmosphere and varied events. Among these, the Fiestas hold a special place, attracting tourists keen on experiencing the city in its full glory. These celebrations bathe Madrid in a kaleidoscope of colourful lights, illuminating its squares, buildings, and streets. Projections for 2023 indicate that over 230 locations will dazzle with festive illumination, embracing this joyful season.
If you’re eager to experience Madrid’s Christmas lights switch-on, the Icon Wipton comes highly recommended for accommodation. Situated in the Salamanca neighbourhood, this hotel embodies an artistic, eclectic, modern, and sophisticated charm. Branded as a vibrant paradise, it features pristine suites adorned with luxurious decor. Guests can indulge in an excellent breakfast each morning and opt for a delightful dinner during their stay.
Switching on the lights in 2023
One of Madrid’s pivotal moments during the Christmas season is slated for Thursday, November 23rd, at seven o’clock in the evening. The official unveiling will occur at the revamped Puerta del Sol, a day preceding Black Friday, an emblematic commercial event that heralds the commencement of the Christmas shopping frenzy. This announcement was made by José Luis Martínez-Almeida during a press conference. Furthermore, the lights will continue to illuminate the city until Epiphany.
An intriguing highlight is Almeida’s revelation about the lighting innovations. The colossal Christmas ball, spanning 12 meters in diameter and weighing 7 tonnes, will be relocated from its customary spot at the junction of Gran Vía and Calle Alcalá to Plaza de España, adjacent to the Jardines de Sabatini. This change is attributed to the square’s pedestrianization. Comprised of 43,000 pixel mapping LEDs, this ball facilitates dynamic movement effects, synchronized lighting with sound, and the projection of texts and designs.
Another intriguing detail pertains to the Puerta de Alcalá, currently concealed by a curtain for maintenance purposes. However, this curtain is set to be unveiled coinciding with Madrid’s Christmas lights switch-on.
As per reports from Madrid, the Christmas illuminations will adorn the city’s 21 districts with a total budget of 4.3 million euros, marking a 7.5% increase from 2022. Notably, 100% of the over 11 million light bulbs slated for the festivities are high-efficiency LEDs. Furthermore, it’s noteworthy that the entire energy cost will be covered by the company that has secured the contract.
Another commendable accommodation option in Madrid is the Gran Hotel Inglés. Nestled in the heart of the city, this charming haven offers exceptional comfort and a superb breakfast. Boasting a gym, wellness facilities, and an inviting lobby for cocktails, it caters to various needs. Be it family gatherings, friendly celebrations, business meetings, and more.
Madrid and designers
To add an element of surprise for both locals and visitors, the Madrid City Council will incorporate designs from several renowned designers into this year’s Christmas lights display. Collaborating designers include García Madrid, Roberto Verino, and Marta Rota for Tot-Hom. This collaboration, stemming from the agreement between the Consistory and the Association of Fashion Designers of Spain, is an altruistic effort.
Roberto Verino will craft a new illuminated fir tree, situated in Plaza Mayor. Alongside, Calle Goya will be adorned with fresh motifs conceptualized by Marta Rota. García Madrid, on the other hand, will breathe life into another festive fir tree situated at Calle Montera with Gran Vía.
The trio of designers joins esteemed brands like Andrés Sardá, Devota & Lomba, Duyos, Moisés Nieto, Maya Hansen, Juan Vidal, Helena Rohner, and Ana Locking. Esteemed firms associated with ACME that have contributed diverse creations to the city in recent years.
An estimated 6,600 luminous chains will adorn the streets of Madrid, comprising 11 grand illuminated fir trees, 115 cherry trees, and figurative nativity scenes placed at the entrances to Plaza Mayor and the historic gates, as previously mentioned.
For an exquisite viewing experience of Madrid’s Christmas lights, consider the Hotel Orfila. Nestled within an iconic mansion dating back to 1886, it graces a residential enclave at the heart of Madrid, adjacent to Plaza de Colón. Renowned for hosting performances and plays, it gained prominence in the 1920s. Following its reconstruction in 1999, the hotel seamlessly blends the opulent ambience of the last century with modern-day conveniences, offering all the comforts befitting a contemporary luxury establishment.
