Antonio Banderas a star attraction as Costa del Sol’s Malaga’s Christmas lights switched on

ACTOR and Malaga’s favourite son Antonio Banderas will be bringing a touch of Hollywood glamour to the city when he switches on the Christmas lights on Friday (November 29). 

He will do the honours next to the statue of the Marquis of Larios in Malaga’s premiere shopping street, Calle Larios at 6.30 pm. 

City mayor Francisco de la Torre will introduce him to the crowds that traditionally throng the streets of the historic centre of the city to view what is always a spectacular display. 

This year there is an extra attraction as a new theme has been chosen for the ever popular illuminations. 

A total of 68 streets will be illuminated. On the day of the inauguration, there will be the traditional performance of Peneque El Valiente in the Plaza de las Flores, dedicated to children. It will be from 6 pm.

The city also has five large Christmas trees located in the Plaza de la Constitución, Molina Lario, Parque Huelin, Plaza de La Marina and Plaza Enrique Garcia Herrera. Also four entrances to the city already have Christmas decorations installed: Ciudad Jardín, El Candado, Plaza Manuel Azaña and Avenida de Andalucía.  Each of the city’s 11 districts are also putting up their own festive lighting. 

With the advent of low-energy lighting, the council says that the decorations are more sustainable then ever before. This year the electricity bill for Christmas lighting is expected to be €9,676. Ten years ago the cost was €53,760. 

Calle Larios is being decorated under the theme of ‘The Forest of Christmas,’ (El Bosque de Navidad) featuring 22 arches, with the illuminations lit for 40 days. 

In addition, there will be sessions of ‘lights and music’ at 6.30 pm, 8 pm and 9.30 pm every day from November 29 to January 5.