Orihuela is celebrating the festive season with a vibrant lineup of Christmas and New Year events encompassing over 200 activities aimed at uniting the community under the theme 'Orihuela, the star united us.' This celebration runs from December 1, 2024, to January 5, 2025, with numerous workshops, festive concerts, and famous nativity scene displays on the calendar.
The local municipality has organized this extensive programming to capture both the holiday spirit and promote community engagement through various cultural expressions. Under the guidance of different departments, including social welfare, youth, culture, sports, and tourism, this engaging initiative aims to bring families and friends together.
Among the highlights, the first session of the youth graffiti workshop is scheduled for December 27, inviting participants aged 12 to 30 to learn about graffiti’s history and practical applications. This session, held at the Municipal Sports Center Palmeral, will be free of charge, providing all materials for attendees to showcase their creativity.
On December 27, attendees can also join tours of Orihuela's standout nativity scenes via the city's tourist train starting from Plaza Teniente Linares. Tickets are priced at 4 euros for adults and 3 euros for children under 12 years old. This tourist initiative supports the 'Orihuela Solidaria' project, encouraging visitors to bring products for animal rescue like dog food and blankets.
A significant event during this festive season is the New Year's concert on January 1, 2025, featuring the Orihuela Symphony Orchestra alongside the Gines Pérez de la Parra choir and dancers from the Ana Belén Navarro ballet. This special performance will reflect traditional holiday music and include renditions of popular Christmas songs, making it a cultural cornerstone for ringing the New Year.
The holiday schedule also includes various activities for children and families. Events range from circus performances to magical shows, ensuring entertainment for all ages. The musical titled 'The Magic of Stories,' directed by local talents, launches on December 29 at the Teatro Circo, promising to enchant the audience with beloved Disney characters and songs.
Families also have the opportunity to engage with traditional nativity scenes, including the Municipal Bethlehem, which features over 800 intricately crafted figures. Visitors can enjoy this display until January 6, 2025, at the former tourism office, the location soon to change as the municipality prepares for new developments.
The festive celebrations continue with the 'Magic Dreams' party on December 31, offering festive activities during the day culminating at night with a grand New Year’s Eve celebration including DJs and unique shows, open to those aged 16 and above.
Local police have taken part creatively, helping Santa Claus with gift distribution. They produced a heartfelt video featuring officers and their children, reinforcing the holiday spirit and community connection.
Overall, Orihuela’s Christmas programming is poised to promote both joy and generosity as the town prepares to celebrate the New Year with performances, arts, and cultural activities. The city strives to create not only festive highlights but also support initiatives aimed at helping those who require assistance.
With engaging events explained by Mayor’s office stating: "It’s our aim to make sure everyone can participate and enjoy these celebrations, fostering compassion and unity!" the impact of this festive period is tangible, encouraging residents and visitors alike to come gather and create lasting memories.
The festive message is clear: solidarity, support, and creativity will define this year's Christmas and New Year events, continuing traditions and promoting the spirit of togetherness. With all events scheduled to take place under one roof, Orihuela truly shines as the star of the season.
