Christmas brings a bit of magic to Villena, and this year the city has unveiled a full festive programme that begins on Friday, 5 December.
Events runs all the way through to 12 January in the district of Las Virtudes. Villena has added new musical events to the calendar. On 19 December, the Multi-purpose Square will host “El Fiestón, quédate en Villena”, featuring DJs Lillo and Turbo from 18:00 well into the night, with free entry.
On, 20 December, Santiago Square becomes the stage for Villena-born artist Almácor, who will perform alongside local DJs, again free of charge.
Another favourite returns on 24 December: the Tardebuena celebration, which will once again move across different parts of the city. On 31 December, the Tardevieja in Plaza Santiago will help residents bid farewell to 2025.
Christmas in Villena: Family fun
Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the neighbourhoods during the school holidays. Inflatables and children’s activities will pop up in San Francisco on 11 December, Plaza Mayor on 20 December, Plaza Martínez Olivencia on 26 December, La Encina on 27 December, Calle San Francisco on 28 December, Ambrosio Cotes Boulevard on 29 December, Maestro Carrascosa Boulevard on 2 January and Las Virtudes on 3 January.
The Christmas Train, organised in collaboration with the Vi Trade and Services Association, will run on 20, 21, 24, 26, 27 and 28 December, as well as 2, 3 and 4 January.
The Municipal Market is also joining in the festivities with a Children’s Gastronomy Workshop on Friday, 5 December and again on Saturday, 19 December. Before that, on 12 December, a new edition of Gastrociencia will take place.
Music plays a key part in Villena’s Christmas programme. The Christmas Carols Festival on 18 December will bring together pupils from local schools. On 20 December, the Youth Band will perform in Las Virtudes, adding even more seasonal charm to the celebrations.
For older residents, Plaza Plurifuncional will host the traditional Christmas Toast on 27 December at 18:00. On the same day, the town will also enjoy the 24th San Silvestre race, which winds through part of the old town.
Festive highlights in Villena
Villena closes the Christmas season with its spectacular Three Kings Parade and several traditional religious plays.
On 6 January, the Adoration of the Magi will be performed and finally, on 12 January, residents and visitors can watch the Flight into Egypt and the Massacre of the Innocents. This historic event is recognised as a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest and marks the final celebration of this year’s Christmas programme.
