The city of Águeda, in central Portugal, is bursting with holiday spirit. In order to promote local business and attract visitors to the region, Águeda has developed city-wide holiday attractions and events sure to please kids and the young-at-heart. Imagine not only the LARGEST Santa Claus in the world, but also the SMALLEST Santa Claus on display. There’s also a holiday train, festive park and lights spread throughout the streets. Águeda Natal runs through 12 January.
Some of the major events of the holiday festival include:
Alta Vila Municipal Park
This green space in the heart of city illustrates the ancient times of Águeda, its history and identity. For Christmas, the park Is decorated in lights, color and magic.
Biggest Santa in the World
The World’s Largest Santa Claus, about 21 meters tall, is illuminated with more than 250 thousand LEDs. The Águeda Santa is now recognized by Guinness as the largest Santa on the planet.
Largo 1st de Maio
Smallest Santa in the World
Conversely, the World’s Smallest Santa Claus is also in Águeda! It is a nano-sculpture by the artist Willard Wigan, which can only be seen through a microscope. This tiny Santa sits perfectly inside the eye of a needle.
Tourist Office
Tuesday to Friday – 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:30 to 20:00
Saturday and Sunday – 10:00 to 20:00
24 & 31 December – 10:00 to 13:00
Historic Vouga Train
Let time take you on this journey along the only operating narrow track in Portugal. Climb aboard one of the five carriages, built in the early 20th century and pulled by a historic 9004 diesel locomotive. The train programIncludes animation program, display of regional products and visit to the Macinhata do Vouga Railway Museum
Learn more and buy tickets here: www.cp.pt.
