As in previous years, the inauguration of the Christmas illuminations will be marked at Terreiro do Paço, with the switching on of the Christmas tree, on November 23rd (Saturday), at 6:30 pm, followed by a light and sound show and a concert by Singer Áurea, who will perform themes from Christmas films.
In 2023, the Christmas lights in Lisbon were opened on November 30, a week later compared to this year's schedule.
In response to Lusa agency, the Lisbon City Council (CML) said that the investment in Christmas lighting for this year is 749,500 euros, the same amount that was made available in 2023, within the scope of a protocol between the municipality and the Union of Commerce and Services Associations (UACS).
“It is worth highlighting the measures that were adopted to reduce consumption and energy efficiency: Lisbon will be lit with 1,987,125 low-consumption lamps, using LED technology, which will allow energy savings of around 80% compared to traditional incandescent lamps”, indicated the city hall.
As part of the protocol with UACS, the urban area to be illuminated will also be the same as the previous year, with Christmas lights expected in 45 locations, including squares, streets and avenues in the city.
“In total, around 1,000 luminous structures will be installed, made up of approximately 5,700 decorative pieces,” said the city hall.
In addition to concerns about energy savings, CML highlighted that this year's Christmas lights “more sustainable materials will be used, such as biodegradable and recyclable plastics, thus minimizing waste generation”.
“The facilities will be recycled at the end of their useful life, contributing to a circular economy and reducing the environmental impact associated with production and disposal”, highlighted the municipality.
According to the city hall, Christmas lights hours are from 5:30 pm to midnight on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; from 17:30 to 01:00 on Fridays and Saturdays; and from 5:30 pm to 2 am on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.