Madrid Lights Up Christmas 2025 with Record-Breaking Festive Installations

Madrid is preparing for an unforgettable festive season as the city unveils one of its most ambitious Christmas celebrations for 2025. The official switch-on of the Christmas lights takes place on 22 November 2025 at 7:30 pm in Plaza de Cibeles, marking the start of a spectacular transformation of the Spanish capital. Led by the Mayor of Madrid alongside motorsport icon Carlos Sainz, the ceremony signals the beginning of a citywide celebration of light, design, and tradition.

This year, Madrid’s Christmas lights illuminate more than 240 locations across all 21 districts, powered by over 13 million energy-efficient LED lights. From glowing arches and luminous trees to large-scale artistic installations, the display blends innovation with the city’s festive heritage. The lights are on daily from 6 pm to midnight, extending to 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays, with longer hours on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Epiphany.

One of the standout attractions of Christmas 2025 is the Cibeles Palace videomapping show, titled La energía de la Navidad. Using advanced 3D and AI-driven visuals, the iconic façade becomes a dynamic digital canvas. Other highlights include the towering 22-metre Christmas tree on Gran Vía, the traditional tree at Puerta del Sol, refined illuminations in the Salamanca district, and contemporary installations such as the walk-in candle at Nuevos Ministerios and the giant angels near Atocha.

Madrid’s festive atmosphere extends far beyond its lights. The city offers a full Christmas program featuring seasonal experiences, traditional markets, family-friendly attractions, ice rinks, nativity scenes, and nearby festive destinations, making Madrid one of Europe’s most magical cities to visit during the holiday season.

Source: Idealista, December 2025