Vigo Christmas Lights, a Surprise to Discover
Vigo is the largest city in Galicia. Known for its industrial fishing heritage, shipbuilding and the car industry, plus the charming streets of the old town, its vibrant cultural and night life, and the Cíes Islands with their beautiful Caribbean-like beaches. Vigo is also a shopping paradise. The city council has decided to do something special for Christmas in recent years to put the city on the holiday-destination map. The result: the spectacular Vigo Christmas lights — unmissable on your visit to Galicia.
Vigo Christmas Lights
A few months ago, the mayor of Vigo announced the city's Christmas lights this year would be "the most important Christmas lights ever seen in any city". And the mayor is famous for keeping his promises.
Per the published lighting plan, 2019 could be remembered as "the year of stunning Christmas lights". Over 10 million LEDs and 465 Christmas trees (one reaching 60 m, taller than the famous New York tree) will turn night into day in 334 of the city's 1,700 streets. Themed areas in the main square (like Santa's house) round it off.
Investment reached almost a million euros — installation began in mid-September. This puts Vigo on a par with the world's great capitals. On 23 November the Vigo Christmas lights were officially switched on.
What else can we see at Vigo's Christmas?
This year Vigo's Christmas will have even more: a Christmas village, a 60 m Ferris wheel and three street Christmas markets. Plus a cannon spewing snow periodically to whiten a street, and an artificial ice ramp at the Nautical Club over 50 m long. All mixed with fun activities for all ages throughout December and the first week of January (Spanish Christmas runs until 6 January). According to the mayor, in 2018 Vigo welcomed 2 million Christmas visitors; this year that figure will likely be higher.
At Vigo's Christmas, you'll enjoy:
- A magical place where Christmas trees, snowmen and storybooks become giant lit figures.
- Kids can play on the Christmas City slide, ride the Royal Camel or have fun on the Ferris wheel. They can also knock on Father Christmas's door.
- Every day at 6 pm, a secret button switches on the lights and decorations.
- The "NadalBus" tours the city at dusk so passengers can enjoy the lights quickly and comfortably.
- Friends love the ice rinks. Christmas markets are fun for gift shopping.
- At year's end, people meet at home or "Plaza de América" to eat 12 grapes to the sound of the bass drum. Hugs, kisses and fun until dawn. The greedy don't go to bed without the traditional churros with hot chocolate.
Enjoy the city (beyond the Christmas lights)
December is a perfect time for a short break. Whether you need stress relief or just to shop for Christmas, Vigo has much to offer. The city centre is full of international brands mixed with traditional shops. Christmas markets let you buy handmade products and chat with makers. And it's in Galicia — great food and wines on every corner.
Enjoy the Vigo Christmas lights with all your senses. Vigo is a lively city where you'll find a surprise around every corner.
