Record Christmas in Zaragoza: visitors increase by 15% and spend 75 million

The Christmas campaign in Zaragoza has established itself as a top-level tourist and economic driver, attracting more than 600,000 visitors in recent weeks, which represents a growth of more than 10% in the number of tourists compared to the previous edition. These are figures provided by the mayor, Natalia Chueca, who has stressed that this “successful strategy of the municipal government” has generated an estimated economic impact of 75.7 million euros in the local economy.

Hotel occupancy has reached 54.7%, representing an increase of 15% compared to the previous year, with more than 259,000 overnight stays recorded. In addition, tourist homes and apartments have reached an occupancy rate of 76.8%. Inquiries at municipal Tourist Offices have experienced an increase of 42%, registering 7,634 requests for information, “which reflects the growing interest in the Aragonese capital”, said Chueca.

The mayor has described these results as an unprecedented success. “Collaboration between areas has been key to making this Christmas a record-breaking success. The commitment to Christmas lighting, which has attracted visitors from outside Zaragoza, together with the cultural programme and a new Three Kings’ parade, have been fundamental elements of this positive impact,” said Chueca.

DAILY EXPENSE OF 107 EUROS FOR THOSE WHO HAVE STAYED OVERNIGHT

The profile of visitors during these dates is notable for its diversity: 71% were visiting Zaragoza for the first time, attracted by the varied programme and the city’s tourist attractions. The increase was 50% more Spaniards and 21% more foreigners. The average stay was two days, with a daily expenditure of 107 euros for those who stayed overnight and 55 euros for those who went on excursions. Almost half of the travellers arrived by train, consolidating Zaragoza’s position as an accessible and well-connected destination.

The council has emphasised that the direct economic impact of tourism has reached 33.6 million euros, while indirect expenditure amounts to 23.1 million. This result reinforces the commitment to expanding the scope of the Christmas campaign, which has received a very positive evaluation from both visitors and local residents.

The mayor has highlighted the importance of continuing to position Zaragoza as a tourist reference in 2025, with outstanding events such as the Queen’s Cup, the final of the Women’s Euroleague Basketball Championship, the Vuelta Ciclista a España and festivals such as Zaragoza Florece or the Festival of Lights. “We continue to work on the deseasonalisation of tourism through congresses and sporting events, generating economic impact throughout the year,” Chueca stressed, reaffirming the commitment of her government team to the economic and cultural development of the city.

EVENTS IN THE CITY

The Christmas weeks in Zaragoza have marked a historic milestone, with more than 600 events that have brought together nearly 2,000,000 people. The Plaza del Pilar has become the epicentre of the celebration, attracting 870,000 visitors to the Christmas Exhibition and 345,000 to the Nativity scene of Judea. In addition, activities such as sleigh rides, the ice rink and visits to the Town Hall’s vestibule have also seen massive participation. The new Three Kings’ Parade, with an investment of 280,000 euros, has brought together 200,000 people, consolidating itself as one of the highlights.

The Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta has become a key meeting place thanks to initiatives such as the 
light and sound show “Luzir”, which has attracted 84,000 visitors, and the Gourmet Market, which has exceeded that figure. Proposals such as “Magicus” or activities in civic centres and commercial areas have spread the Christmas spirit to the entire city, involving more than 12,000 people in shows and itinerant events. The council has also reinforced its support for local commerce and Aragonese artistic talent through its programming.

In the cultural sphere, museums, theatres and municipal libraries have had a notable turnout, with more than 70,000 visits to exhibitions and 64,400 visitors to the Zaragoza Auditorium. Events such as “Carmina Burana”, the New Year’s Concert and activities such as the Comic Fair have reached record numbers. Libraries have also recorded a good level of participation, especially among children, with innovative activities and programmes that have encouraged reading and cultural exchange.

The sporting offer and innovative initiatives such as the “Fashion Pet Christmas” competition have added diversity to the programme, selling out races such as the San Silvestre and the Santa Claus Race. This positive balance, which includes both municipal and private activities, has reinforced the City Council’s strategy to position Zaragoza as a tourist and cultural destination of reference at Christmas, working to expand its offer and prestige on international circuits.