The Christmas lights switch-on in Donostia-San Sebastián is set to welcome the holiday season with a series of events that promise to illuminate the city and fill its residents and visitors with joy. This year, the traditional Christmas lights switch-on features a significant novelty: the change of venue to the iconic Alderdi Eder Gardens. In addition to the traditional events, new surprises have been prepared to make this celebration much more special than in previous years.
Christmas Lights Switch-On: Alderdi Eder as the New Holiday Epicenter
Historically, the Christmas lights switch-on has taken place in various locations throughout the city. However, this year, the city council has decided to move the ceremony to Alderdi Eder Gardens, offering residents and visitors an incomparable setting with views of La Concha Bay. This change aims to highlight the natural beauty of the area and provide a more spacious and accessible environment for the public. With this new location, the city council also hopes to encourage greater participation, creating a gathering point where people can enjoy the Christmas lights switch-on in a comfortable and safe atmosphere.
The change of venue will also allow for the integration of new activities and decorations, taking advantage of the unique setting of Alderdi Eder Gardens. Different light points will create an illuminated pathway, guiding visitors throughout the park and highlighting the beauty of the gardens. Additionally, informational panels will be installed to explain the history of this iconic location, thus integrating a cultural experience into the festivity.
Event Details: Drone Show and Live Music
The Christmas lights switch-on ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 29th, at 6:30 PM. One of the main attractions will be an innovative drone show over La Concha Bay, where dozens of drones will light up the sky with synchronized choreographies, creating figures and light patterns that reflect Christmas themes and iconic symbols of the city. This technological display promises to offer a unique visual experience for all spectators.
The use of drones for the show not only aims to surprise but also to reduce the environmental impact compared to traditional fireworks, opting for a sustainable alternative. The drones, equipped with LED lights of various colors, will create a magical atmosphere that will delight both children and adults alike. It will be a perfect occasion to take memorable photos and share the magic of the Christmas lights switch-on with friends and family.
After the drone show, renowned singer Mikel Erentxun will perform live, singing a selection of his hits to entertain the evening and add a musical touch to the celebration. In addition to Erentxun, other local artists will also participate, bringing the Christmas spirit to every corner of Alderdi Eder, creating a festive and friendly atmosphere.
Christmas Market: A Culinary and Artisan Experience
Coinciding with the Christmas lights switch-on, the traditional Christmas Market will be inaugurated and will remain open until January 6th, 2025. This year, the market will feature 65 stalls located along Paseo de Francia and Plaza de Ramón Labayen, offering a wide variety of artisanal and culinary products. Visitors will be able to sample local specialties, purchase unique gifts, and enjoy workshops and activities for all ages.
The workshops will include live demonstrations by local artisans showing how they create their products, from ceramics to jewelry, allowing visitors to learn about traditional manufacturing processes. There will also be activities for children, such as making Christmas decorations and baking workshops where they can decorate their own cookies.
The market will also feature a section dedicated to gastronomy, where visitors can taste typical regional dishes, such as talo with chistorra and the famous Donostia pintxos. This year, a hot drinks section has also been added, allowing people to enjoy hot chocolate, spiced wine, and other beverages ideal for combating the cold. All of this in the setting of the Christmas lights switch-on, which will undoubtedly be the highlight of the festivities.
Additional Attractions: The Ferris Wheel and the Christmas Train
Since November 15th, the Ferris wheel located in Alderdi Eder Gardens has been in operation, providing panoramic views of the city and contributing to the festive atmosphere that characterizes the Christmas lights switch-on in Donostia-San Sebastián during this period. The Ferris wheel, decorated with colorful lights, has become a symbol of Christmas in the city and allows visitors to enjoy a unique perspective of the Christmas lights and La Concha Bay.
Additionally, a Christmas train has been installed to tour the main streets of the city center, offering children a magical experience. The train route will include stops at some of the city’s most iconic spots, where special decorations and activities for children can be enjoyed, such as encounters with Santa Claus and the opportunity to drop their letters in special mailboxes distributed along the route. All of this, along with the Christmas lights switch-on, will create a unique atmosphere for the little ones.
Sustainability and Accessibility Measures
The city council has implemented various measures to ensure a sustainable and accessible celebration. The Christmas lights use energy-efficient LED technology, and recycling points have been installed in high-traffic areas. Additionally, facilities have been adapted for people with reduced mobility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities.
Furthermore, initiatives have been taken to reduce plastic use at the Christmas Market, encouraging the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials. Food stalls will use cardboard and wooden utensils, and discounts will be offered to those who bring their own reusable containers. A special public transport service has also been organized to facilitate access to the city center, promoting the use of sustainable transportation methods and reducing traffic in the busiest areas. All these measures aim to make the Christmas lights switch-on an environmentally friendly experience.
Conclusion: A Magical Christmas in Donostia-San Sebastián
With these initiatives, Donostia-San Sebastián reaffirms its commitment to the Christmas tradition, adapting to new settings and offering citizens and tourists a unique experience in a privileged environment. The Christmas lights switch-on, combined with innovative shows, live music, artisanal markets, and attractions for all ages, promises to make this Christmas an unforgettable celebration.
Every detail, including the Christmas lights switch-on, has been designed so that both residents and visitors can enjoy festivities full of magic, tradition, and modernity. Donostia-San Sebastián thus becomes an ideal destination to experience Christmas, where the beauty of the city, combined with the quality of the planned events, guarantees unforgettable moments. No matter the age, there is something for everyone: from the magic of drones in the sky to the authentic flavors of the market, every corner of the city will be filled with surprises and joy to share, all illuminated by the Christmas lights switch-on.
