On New Year's Eve, millions of Spaniards gathered before their screens to ring in 2025, marking yet another highly competitive night of television as the traditional "Campanadas" broadcasts brought together various networks touting their unique festivities. Spearheading the famed New Year’s transition was Cristina Pedroche, who—under the spotlight of Antena 3—made headlines once more with her audacious fashion sense and emotional tributes.
This year, Pedroche, along with the beloved chef Alberto Chicote, took center stage as viewers eagerly awaited the reveal of her eye-catching outfit—a stunning creation weighing 42 kilograms and adorned with 8,500 crystals made from her own breast milk. "I want to wish for light this year, so I have transformed myself, metaphorically, as something luminous," Pedroche stated, embodying the essence of motherhood and fertility through her ensemble.
Meanwhile, across the broadcasting channels, the competition remained fierce. Televisión Española made significant strides this season, hoping to reclaim viewership lost since its dominance began wavering two years earlier. Teaming up for the first time were David Broncano and his co-host Lalachus, presenting from La 1. Notably, this duo sought to inject their brand of humor and camaraderie to create their own unique take on the event.
This year was especially poignant, as the presenters paid tribute to the victims of the DANA storms, which had caused extensive damage throughout Valencia and beyond. “This year has been full of lessons about unity and resilience,” Broncano remarked, highlighting the community spirit demonstrated during the recovery efforts.
The night also featured unique twists from across the broadcasting spectrum, with even Mediaset opting for diverse locales by bringing their celebrations to Lanzarote, led by Ion Aramendi and Blanca Romero. They introduced customary rituals from around the globe, hoping to resonate with the audience on multiple levels.
For Pedroche, the anticipation surrounding her dress has become her hallmark. Starting her tradition back with La Sexta, she moved over to Antena 3, where her creative and audacious approaches to wardrobe choices have consistently garnered media attention and prompted debates about her plans year-on-year. 'Even if I stir some controversy, it’s all part of the spectacle,' she shared on her social media platforms.
Critics and fans alike often discuss Pedroche’s suggestions and surprises—whether they emerge through her arranging to wear clothes representing significant causes to create awareness. From her environmental statements to personal tragedies, the narratives surrounding her outfits consistently resonate deeply with the public. “I’ve always believed fashion can be about more than just style—it's about message,” Pedroche emphasized.
On the other hand, Lalachus dominated discussions with her smart fashion choice this year—crafted exclusively by Spanish designers. “I endeavored to wear something meaningful yet elegant, which signifies our shared cultural ethos,” she stated, as her outfit exuded grace and sophistication, challenging the representation of women's fashion on television.
The lively exchanges between Pedroche and the La 1 team brought humor and warmth through the night. The rivalry was palpable, yet both sides exhibited mutual respect, capturing smiles from audiences who enjoyed witnessing these two worlds converge under the same roof at the Puerta del Sol, iconic to New Year's broadcasts.
Critical to both shows was their ability to elicit engagement, from social media buzzes to audience interaction through live comments on streaming platforms. This encouraged fans to voice their opinions and cheers through the event as it unfolded, bridging connections with presenters and fellow viewers alike.
Televisión Española's last two broadcasts had shown some recovery with their viewing numbers, and though Antena 3 maintained its lead—framed by Pedroche's undeniable popularity—the shift's narratives focused on broader themes than mere numbers this year.
Reflecting on their previous difficulties, the competition set for 2025 is already poised to be hotter than ever. Pedroche and Chicote not only rallied for their side but intersected personal growth to highlight the importance of protecting children’s rights amid political and economic challenges faced by many families today.
“Children are the future, and protecting their innocence is something we must cherish collectively,” Pedroche articulated before the clock struck midnight, ensuring her feelings were woven tightly with her aesthetic for the night.
Looking beyond individual performances, these broadcasts represent more than entertainment; they encapsulate social sentiments, community solidarity, and narratives of resilience. Spain’s New Year’s Eve celebrations don’t rely solely on the countdown to midnight—each year, they explore perspectives on identity, culture, and messages of hope through the lens of television.
The results of viewership and the continued reign of various hosts strengthen narrative arcs exploring societal themes each year. Behind the glitz of the countdown, the real magic lies within words shared, laughter exchanged, and the collective experience of gathering around screens to welcome the year with warmth and camaraderie.
Expectations are already building for 2025, with anticipation for how presenters will break ground and use their platforms to inspire meaningful dialogue, continuing the traditions of the past with innovative narratives for the future.