Malaga is gearing up for the official start of Christmas, with the city’s famous light and sound show on Calle Larios once again marking the beginning of the festive season.
The switch-on date is one of the most anticipated events of the season, and this year it has been confirmed for Friday, November 28.
While full details of this year’s decorations have not yet been revealed, crews from the Cordoba-based firm Ximenez Iluminacion – the company responsible for Málaga’s Christmas lights – have already been busy wiring streets and installing fixtures.
In several neighbourhoods, including Cruz de Humilladero, the illuminations are already in place.
Last year, more than 2.7 million LED lights lit up Malaga’s streets and squares, a figure expected to be repeated this year.
In recent editions, Calle Larios has hosted the spectacular ‘Celestial Angels’ display, featuring 16 four-metre-tall angels supported by 32 side columns.
Black Friday boost for local shops
As in previous years, the lights will be switched on the same day as Black Friday, when Malaga’s shops and department stores offer big discounts ahead of Christmas.
The combination has become a major draw for both residents and visitors, filling the city centre with early festive cheer.
New ‘Alice Christmas’ experience
Meanwhile, the historic botanical gardens of La Concepcion will once again host a special Christmas experience.
This year’s edition, called ‘Alice Christmas’, also opens on November 28, and promises new attractions, including an extended route, costumed characters, and free candy floss for children.
However, one event that won’t be returning is the Festival of Lanterns in the Parque del Oeste, which sparked complaints from local residents last year.
Instead, the park will feature a series of illuminated trees to keep the festive spirit alive without the controversy.
