Palma ushers in the Christmas season with one of its most popular annual moments: the joyful switching-on of the festive lights. On Saturday, November 22, the city will host a free event designed for all ages, turning the city’s streets into a glowing, enchanting backdrop.
This year’s edition embraces an immersive style, featuring live music, audiovisual projections and carefully crafted staging intended to captivate the audience. The central show is expected to last between half an hour and an hour, ending with the vibrant countdown that officially brightens the city. Both residents and visitors will be treated to a blend of creativity and technology that sets the tone for the Christmas period.
Festivities will kick off at 6.30pm with several street parades that will fill well-known streets, venues and squares with energy and colour. Performers and entertainers will create a lively atmosphere, guiding crowds through the historic centre. These routes will lead participants towards Plaza España, where the main ceremony will take place.
At around 7pm, a visual and musical show by Grup Trui, will present 'El ball de les dues estrelles' (The Dance of the Two Stars), lasting approximately 35 minutes. Then, the moment everyone is waiting for will unfold: the switch-on of the Christmas lights. Accompanied by live music and an audiovisual storyline crafted to heighten anticipation, the ceremony aims to build on the excitement generated throughout the early evening.
The City Council has opted for a refreshed approach that fuses cutting-edge technology with artistic performance. Light effects synchronised to music, mapped projections on landmark buildings and interactive decorations will shape the experience. This updated format transforms the traditional lighting event into a multi-sensory show, appealing to both adults and children and encouraging families to enjoy the festive atmosphere outdoors.
Where can I park my car?
Parking in Palma can be tricky at the best of times, and evenings like the Christmas lights switch-on make it even more challenging. The city centre fills up quickly, so it’s wise to leave home early to secure a spot. Luckily, there are several options available. Planning ahead will ensure you can enjoy the festivities without the hassle of hunting for a space.
The Son Moix car park has a total of 348 spaces and offers easy access from the Via Cintura. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 8am to 10pm and Sundays and public holidays from 8am to 3pm. Estimated travel time to the city centre using different modes of transport: by bike (12 minutes) or via EMT bus lines L6 and L8 (10 minutes).
In addition to Son Moix, the City Council operates three other free park-and-ride facilities (Son Fuster, Son Sardina, and Son Gibert) and two with reduced fees (Sa Riera and Manacor). Together, the six sites provide a total of 1,732 spaces.
If you want to park in the city centre, be prepared for limited spaces and higher demand. Options include public underground car parks and street parking, but it’s always wise to arrive early to secure a spot. Palma offers a number of SMAP-managed car parks across the city, providing convenient options for drivers. In the city centre, popular choices include Comtat del Rosselló (484 spaces), Bisbe Berenguer de Palou (515), Passeig Mallorca (435), Plaça Major (508), and Avingudes (414). Other centrally located options are S’Escorxador (334), Plaça de l’Olivar (380), Parc de la Mar (844), Marquès de la Sènia (264), and Alexandre Rosselló (around 420 spaces). There’s also Santa Pagesa, an underground SMAP facility. These car parks are strategically spread across Palma to provide easy access to shopping areas, tourist attractions, and the historic centre.
Public Transport
Getting around Palma by public transport is a convenient and stress-free alternative to driving, especially during busy periods or special events. The city is well served by the EMT bus network. For longer journeys or travelling from nearby towns, the interurban bus network TIB links Palma with destinations across Mallorca. Using public transport not only helps you avoid the hassle of finding parking but is also a more sustainable choice, reducing traffic congestion and emissions. Tickets can be purchased on board.
Road Closures
The Mayor of Palma, Jaime Martínez, has said that the closure of Avenidas to traffic for the Christmas lights switch-on at Plaça d’Espanya has “not yet been decided”, emphasising that “above all, the safety of people will come first.” He explained that the change of location was recommended due to the success of previous editions and backed by reports from the Local Police, Fire Service, and Civil Protection plans. Security forces are prepared to implement road closures and diversions if necessary, though the fact that the switch-on does not coincide with Black Friday means crowds are expected to be smaller.