With Christmas just a few months away, Madrid is already preparing to switch on its traditional Christmas lights, once again courtesy of Ximenez Iluminación
There is approximately one month to go before Madrid’s Christmas lights are switched on and the festive spirit arrives in the streets of the capital, which will be filled with brightness and colour.
Behind this display of light and colour is Ximenez Iluminación, a leading company in decorative and artistic lighting, which once again is responsible for lighting up the Spanish capital for the festive season, as well as 250 other cities around the world.
When do Madrid’s Christmas lights come on?
One of the most eagerly awaited moments for Madrid residents and visitors to the city is undoubtedly the official switching on of the Christmas lights. An event that brings thousands of people together every year in the centre of Madrid, this year, more specifically in the Plaza de Cibeles, where the starting signal for Christmas in Madrid is given.
In 2025, Madrid will be officially lit up on 22 November for Christmas. The event will feature musical performances and many surprises, such as who will be in charge of pressing the button to start the lighting.
This event not only symbolises the beginning of Christmas, but also boosts local trade, attracting numerous visitors who enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city.
What are the must-see places in Madrid at Christmas?
With the arrival of the Christmas lights, dozens of streets, squares and iconic spaces in Madrid are transformed into a scene full of light and colour. The city dresses up to offer a unique experience to locals and visitors alike. Some of the most recommended places to enjoy the festive atmosphere are:
- Gran Vía: This iconic Madrid thoroughfare will be decked out in avant-garde decorations that fuse classic elements with a contemporary touch.
- Puerta del Sol: The nerve centre of the capital will feature a large decorative tree that will be one of the main visual attractions for those who want to capture Christmas memories.
- Plaza Mayor: In addition to its charming lighting, it will host the traditional Christmas market, ideal for finding unique decorations, figurines and gifts.
- Retiro Park: Strolling along its illuminated paths allows you to enjoy a natural environment enveloped in the magical atmosphere of this time of year.
Christmas lights in Plaza Mayor
Ximenez Iluminación, the company responsible for lighting up Christmas in Madrid
Madrid dresses up during the Christmas season with an unprecedented display of lights, becoming a stage where creativity, innovation and sustainability come together.
Ximenez Iluminación, a global leader in artistic lighting, is responsible for bringing this magical spectacle to life in Madrid. With decades of experience, the company has designed unique decorations such as the lights designed by children, which we will also be able to see in the capital this year.
In 2025, the capital is expected to feature new themes and structures that enhance the beauty of the city and its buildings. From the monumental tree in Puerta del Sol to other three-dimensional figures, these are some of the designs that Ximenez Iluminación will install this Christmas in Madrid.
In addition, what sets the company apart is the spectacular nature of its designs and their combination with technology, with a commitment to LED technology that contributes to energy efficiency and respect for the environment, thus fulfilling one of its strategic pillars.
More than 13 million light bulbs will illuminate the city, spread across more than 240 locations in Madrid’s 21 districts. The city will be filled with 126 illuminated cherry trees and 7,134 strings of lights, totalling 157 kilometres.
80 years lighting up Christmas
At Ximenez Iluminación, we have been lighting up the streets of cities around the world for 80 years, and Madrid occupies a very special place in our history. Each installation is custom designed, respecting the urban environment and conveying the Christmas spirit with unique and surprising designs.
In this edition, Ximenez has once again surpassed itself to bring the magic of Christmas to every corner of the capital. Now the countdown to the switching on of Madrid’s Christmas lights has begun.