Spanish cities begin preparations for 2026 Christmas light displays

Spanish cities are beginning preparations for the 2026 Christmas season, focusing on large-scale light installations to boost tourism and local commerce.

In Barcelona, which has been named the European Capital of Christmas 2026, the city will illuminate over 130 kilometers of streets. The display will include 255 arches, 272 light figures, and ornamental fountains, featuring new locations for designer lights and the return of the ‘galets de Ramon Bigas’ sculptures.

Madrid has approved a contract of 5.9 million euros for its holiday lighting, with a total projected investment of approximately 7.3 million euros. The installation will feature over 14 million high-efficiency LED bulbs across 250 locations.

Other cities, including Salamanca, Valencia, and Fuengirola, are also advancing their holiday decoration plans. In Salamanca, workers have already begun installing hanging ornaments in major thoroughfares like Calle Toro.