Olentzero’s 2024 Christmas Eve Visit to Pamplona is more than just a festive procession; it’s a beloved cultural event drawing thousands to the streets of this northern Spanish city. This year, the iconic figure—known for delivering gifts to well-behaved children—will return with even more fanfare. A kaleidoscope of music, animals, and community spirit will transform the streets as the parade kicks off on December 24 at 6:00 PM.
According to reports, major disruptions to public transport will occur on the evening of December 24 due to the celebratory procession. The city's public bus services will be modified between 5:30 PM and 9:00 PM, as noted by local transit officials. Key routes will be affected, particularly those crossing the city center, owing to road closures from the Plaza Príncipe de Viana to the Merindades. Buses on routes L1, L2, and L8 will now end at the Plaza Príncipe de Viana, and service on the circular routes L3 and L21 will be temporarily altered.
Municipal officials are bracing for significant traffic delays as the city gears up for the parade. The procession will leave from the Escuela de Artes Aplicadas, traversing the core areas of Pamplona, returning after two hours of festivity. “To help with the safe enjoyment of the event,” said the city’s spokesperson, “we are deploying 24 police officers alongside the National Police and the Foral Police to manage traffic flows and crowd safety.”
This year’s event promises to be particularly special, featuring not only Olentzero’s traditional figure but also the introduction of a new choral group from the Association of Friends of Olentzero. Together with roughly 200 animals from the Hípica Zahorí ranch, the parade will be grander than ever before. The animal entourage will include donkeys, horses, and even eight goats, adding vibrancy to the holiday festivities. The event will mark the participation of various musical groups, with performances from txistularis, gaiteros, and more.
“The camaraderie and festive atmosphere reflect Pamplona’s enduring cultural spirit,” commented an official from the Association of Friends of Olentzero, describing the event's importance. A crowd of over 75,000 attended last year, illustrating the drawing power of this unique holiday event.
Beginning at Iturralde and Suit, the parade will wind through prominent streets including Paulino Caballero and the Plaza del Castillo, culminating back at its starting point. The route allows families to line the streets and greet Olentzero as he travels, bringing with him the festive spirit of Christmas. By approximately 7:30 PM, Olentzero will greet families and civic leaders at the Plaza Consistorial, where the mayor, Joseba Aison Saez, will adorn him with the customary blue-and-white checked scarf, signifying his official welcome.
To ease accessibility to the city center, municipal authorities are encouraging attendees to utilize public transportation during the busy parade hours. Authorities have heightened their traffic safety protocols, warning of expected congestion particularly on streets such as Avenida Baja Navarra and Plaza Príncipe de Viana.
“It’s important for our residents and visitors to plan accordingly. We recommend using public transport and allowing for extra travel time,” advised city officials. The Police Department has also cautioned drivers to remain vigilant, especially considering the event’s high child participation.
Live coverage of the Olentzero festivities can be watched on Festaro.es and through the online platform Pamplona Actual. Viewers at home will enjoy not just the local parade, but also glimpses of Olentzero’s original parade from Lesaka, all streamed live starting at 6:15 PM.
The event has also sparked social media buzz, with the hashtag #olentzerofestaro gaining traction as families share their experiences and pictures online.
The traditional Olentzero event encapsulates the holiday spirit, uniting families, welcoming community members, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Pamplona. With the traffic changes and special additions planned for 2024, both locals and visitors can look forward to another memorable Christmas Eve.
