Porto has the Christmas spirit! In fact, over two million points of holiday cheer are illuminated in and around the city center. Praça General Humberto Delgado (in front of City Hall) on Avenida dos Aliados, is the focus of the festivities with a newly designed tree for 2024.
Aliados
All displays will be switched on during a ceremony in the evening of 30 November. The illuminating show begins at 18:00, followed by a video-mapping spectacular “Renascer de uma Estrela.” Next up, is the Gospel Collective performing Christmas classics. And finally, singer-songwriter Fernando Daniel entertains with a retrospective of his hits.
Throughout December, the Aliados stage host numerous performances.
- On December 8th, at 18:00, Marisa Liz performs songs from her first solo album.
- December 15th, at 18:00, it’s Desporto no Bairro program , with the participation of local artists such as Ace, Dealema and Maze.
- 22 December at 18:00, there is a special concert by Rodrigo Leão , celebrating 30 years of career alongside young musicians from the city.
Cordoaria
In addition to Avenida dos Aliados, much of the programming for this festive season is in Jardim de João Chagas (Cordoaria). Here, a traditional Christmas Market takes center attention, with numerous stands selling artisan gifts and home-made foods. As well, large figurines will enchant while workshops for the whole family and a diverse range of theater, dance, music, circus and exhibitions, will also entertain.
One of the highlights is the return of the ice rink, which is in Largo do Amor de Perdição and which will delight all expert and curious skaters. Skating is free as is the Parisian carousel, which is specially-built for the holidays.
Certainly, let’s not forget Santa’s House in the middle of the park. The jolly old man will be in his home every day to hear requests from good girls and boys.
Citywide
Holiday lights will stay up and illuminated daily from 17:30 to 23:00, until 6 January.
For 2024, Porto boasts over 2.5 million low-energy micro LED lamps across 94 streets, squares and gardens in the city.
Some of the key areas include the popular Miguel de Bombarda’s district, Praça da República, Praça Guilherme Gomes Fernandes, Avenida de Fernão Magalhães, the streets of Boavista and Doutor Antunes Guimarães, Largo do Padrão,as well as the streets of Firmeza, Caldeireiros, Sá Noronha, Igreja da Areosa, Augusto Luso, Assunção, Cândido dos Reis, Santa Teresa and Vale Formosa.
Find out more about Christmas Celebrations in Portugal here.
