The city of Igualada is preparing to celebrate Christmas with a comprehensive initiative encompassing family activities, tradition, and commercial revitalization. Mayor Marc Castells highlighted the community spirit of the season, emphasizing the involvement of schools, organizations, choirs, and local traditions such as 'Pastorets' and the Epiphany Celebration.
Key new features this year include the expansion of the Magic Forest, which will now extend to Estació Vella park, Plaça de la Creu, and Sant Magí street. The main Christmas light-switching ceremony will take place in the Town Hall Square with an interactive show titled “Batecs de Nadal” (Christmas Heartbeats), directed by Pep Farrés and featuring music by Biel Serena. The facade of the Town Hall and the Cal Maco hostel will also feature new decorations. Additionally, “Game On, Igualada” will debut at the Museum, offering free activities for 12-30 year olds, including video game tournaments, an escape room, and laser tag.
The cultural and community program, detailed by Government spokesperson Miquel Vives, will commence with the lighting ceremony on November 27th. Attendees can collect a luminous element at the squares of Creu, Pius XII, and Pilar from 7:30 PM onwards. New lighting will also be installed on Argent, Sant Magí, and Sant Josep streets, and the Wisdom Forest in Plaça de Sant Miquel will be expanded with 14 trees created by the city's residences and day centers. The Santa Llúcia Fair, organized by the Font Vella neighborhood, will run for three weekends (December 4th-20th) in Plaça Pius XII, complemented by the Caga Tió tournament, the Children's Hall, 'Pastorets', and other traditional events.
Commerce Councilor Jordi Marcè outlined initiatives to support local businesses. Subsidies of up to €300 are available for shop window decorations inspired by the Magic Forest, with applications open until December 7th. A shop window contest will award up to €600 for the most original designs, with decorations displayed from December 11th to January 7th. The 'Ibons' voucher campaign for 16-25 year olds will be reissued, with the council covering 70% of the €10 voucher cost, available from November 16th. The Masuca Market will host a special campaign on Saturdays, December 12th and 19th. Additionally, 30-minute free parking tickets will be distributed for the car parks at Pl. de la Creu, Pl. Cal Font, and Sebastià Artés.
