Cristina Hodgson
THE Malaga Christmas lights, which are one of the highlights of the festive period particularly those in Calle Larios, are up.
The festive forest theme of previous years, decorated with suns, angels and autumn leaves, will bring cheer to the capital.
The decorations are supported by 22 arches, almost 13 metres high and 11 metres between axes, equipped with 1,000 led cords.
Apart from Calle Larios, almost 2 million led bulbs light up Malaga at Christmas time.
This year, however, due to the COVID-19 restrictions, there will be changes to the traditional Christmas programme.
Teresa Porras, the city hall’s councillor for Festivities, has confirmed that this year the popular light and musical shows have been cancelled.
The display, a well-liked feature over the last few years, performed three times a day including Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You and Hilary Duff’s Jingle Bell Rock will not be on the Christmas programme this festive season.
Something that affects not only the principal Calle Larios, but also those of the Calle Alcazabilla and the Alameda Principal.
“Everything that is crowded has been removed,” Porras said.
In fact, it is almost certain that the official lighting ceremony, which last year featured Hollywood legend Antonio Banderas switching on the City’s Christmas lights, will also be cancelled.
There is still speculation, however, as to what will happen with the Kings parade, a topic the City Council have not yet been clear on.
A parade that attracts large crowds and runs through much of the city centre and surrounding districts.
Porras admits that a parade ‘like the one last year in not possible’ but “I am in favour of contemplating proposals which comply with the current health crisis.”
“The highlight of the year for many families is Christmas and the Kings Parade, we need to look to organise events, but at the same time avoid crowding.” She said, confident that “there are things we can and will do.”
The probable date, yet to be confirmed, for the Malaga Christmas lights this year will be Friday 27 November at 6.30pm.
