Lisbon lights up: Eco-friendly displays and holiday markets
Lisbon has officially entered the holiday spirit, delivering a downtown spectacle that lived up to every expectation.
Thousands of locals and tourists gathered in Praça do Comércio, on the banks of the Tagus River, to witness the highly anticipated moment the Christmas lights were switched on. Under the vast skies of the Portuguese capital, a show of lights and fireworks launched a month filled with magic.
The centerpiece of the event was the illumination of the giant Christmas tree, a festive icon for Lisbon. Standing 30 meters tall this year, the tree dominates the square with its dazzling light displays, quickly becoming the favorite spot for photos and family gatherings. Following the tree lighting, the sky was blanketed by a synchronized light show, while applause filled the square, echoing against the surrounding historic buildings.
A Sustainable Spectacle
The city is shining bright this season with 182 kilometers of LED lights distributed across streets, avenues, and 46 key locations. Local authorities note that this distance is enough to circle Lisbon three times. The decorations include 1,050 luminous structures and 5,900 decorative pieces, all energy-efficient thanks to LED technology, which ensures energy savings of up to 80%.
The City Council emphasizes that the 2025 Christmas lights reinforce Lisbon's commitment to the environment. This includes the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials, with many structures reused from previous years, alongside a focus on utilizing solar energy for the installations.
Streets Transformed into Light Trails
Lisbon’s streets have been transformed into a luminous trail: Rua Garrett features golden clouds of light that seem to float above passersby, while Rua do Ouro sparkles with stars and golden reflections. Rua do Carmo has become a tunnel of illuminated arches, where light and music create an enchanting passage. On Rua Augusta, luminous trees and clouds guide visitors toward the Triumphal Arch, and Praça de Luís de Camões has been decorated with a monumental installation inspired by a festive palace.
Wonderland Lisboa Returns
The lighting ceremony wasn't the only anticipated event in Portugal’s capital. Parallel to the lights, Lisbon is preparing for the opening of this year’s Wonderland Lisboa, taking place in Parque Eduardo VII between November 28, 2025, and January 4, 2026. Now in its 10th edition, it is one of the most visited Christmas markets in Portugal.
Organizers have announced several themed zones: a Ferris wheel, an energy-efficient ice rink, Santa’s House, and a "Village of Affection" dedicated to children’s activities. According to data released by local authorities, previous editions have attracted approximately one million visitors.
Commercial stalls will offer artisanal products, decorations, sweets, chocolates, and items crafted by small producers. In the gastronomic zone, visitors will find traditional Portuguese food, mulled wine, and other seasonal treats.
Wonderland Lisboa is easily accessible via public transport, and organizers state that the extended schedule during the holiday period will allow for a more even distribution of visitors, helping to avoid the overcrowding seen in previous years.
As it does every year, the Portuguese capital has successfully transformed winter into a season of light, joy, and community. The growing number of visitors proves that the magic of Christmas in Lisbon is fast becoming a true European benchmark.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
