Discover how Christmas lights tourism has become a global trend, attracting thousands of visitors to cities like Vigo, Brussels, Málaga, London, and Madrid
Christmas lights, more than just decoration, are one of the main tourist attractions of a city during the winter holiday season. Over the years, Christmas lights have evolved from being mere festive ornaments to a powerful magnet for hundreds of thousands of tourists visiting cities worldwide each year. This phenomenon has led to a growing trend: Christmas lights tourism, which transforms cities into irresistible destinations for travelers during the holiday season.
In recent decades, tourism has grown exponentially, driven by factors such as improved working conditions, the rise of the middle class, easier access to travel, and the use of modern technologies for planning and managing trips. In 1950, there were 25 million tourist movements recorded, a figure that has surged dramatically, now exceeding 1.3 billion annual trips. Among the primary reasons for traveling in winter is the stunning Christmas lighting in cities such as Vigo, London, Málaga, Mexico City, Madrid, Brussels, and Barcelona, which increasingly invest in creating authentic light shows, providing unforgettable experiences for visitors.
What is Christmas Lights Tourism?
Christmas lights tourism is a trend that has gained momentum in recent years. More and more cities are allocating resources to festive lighting of their streets during Christmas, creating a magical atmosphere that attracts tourists from various parts of the world. This trend, fueled by increasing investment in Christmas decorations, encourages travelers to visit these cities to enjoy the spectacular lighting adorning their squares and avenues.
Ilmex by Ximenez Group, an international brand and factory belonging to the leading decorative lighting company, is responsible for some of the most impressive Christmas light displays in the world. With projects in over 250 cities across all continents, Ilmex has been instrumental in turning Christmas lighting into a renowned tourist attraction.
This phenomenon not only creates a festive atmosphere but also has a significant economic impact. Cities that invest in Christmas lights experience increased hotel occupancy rates, which can reach 100%, and a notable rise in revenue for local businesses during the holiday season.
The Christmas Lights that Illuminate the World
Several cities have stood out globally as leaders in Christmas lights tourism. A prominent example is Vigo, whose famous Christmas lighting has made the city a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of festive decorations. Its impressive Christmas tree in Puerta del Sol and the spectacular giant gift box are two of the most photographed elements, both designed by Ilmex by Ximenez Group.
Another iconic destination is Málaga, where the famous Calle Larios transforms each Christmas into a dazzling light and sound spectacle that attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists. The lighting of Calle Larios, designed and manufactured by Ilmex and installed by Ximenez, has become a symbol of the festivities in Andalusia and an international reference.
In Madrid, the Spanish capital, the holiday season draws countless tourists seeking to enjoy the magic of its illuminated streets. With millions of LED lights, Ximenez Group and its subsidiary Ilmex decorate the city’s most emblematic spots each year, such as Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol with its majestic Christmas tree, and the iconic illuminated ball. These installations not only beautify the city but also turn it into a perfect backdrop for social media, filling every corner with visitors and cameras.
