7 Keys to Enjoying the Festivities in León

León is pure magic during Christmas. Not only because of the eagerly awaited arrival of the Three Wise Men, but also due to its International Magic Festival, which fills its streets with illusion and fantasy. A unique touch that complements the traditional events of the season, from nativity scenes to fairs and markets, along with children's attractions, concerts, parades, and sports races... A diverse array of activities to enjoy with family over more than three intense weeks. Here are the 10 keys to experiencing an unforgettable Christmas in the capital of León.

From December 18 to January 5, various musical groups will entertain León's afternoons. Notably, the grand parade 'Television Characters' on Sunday, January 2, which will traverse the central area starting at 12:00 from Plaza de Regla (next to the Cathedral) to Plaza San Marcelo.

León offers visitors about twenty nativity scenes, including those at the Cathedral, the Church of Santa Marina la Real, and the Marist School of San José. All can be seen by following the map provided in the 'Festival Program'. Additionally, there are two interesting nativity scene exhibitions: 'The Big Figures of Alborox', recreated with terracotta figurines and artisanal buildings (León Plaza shopping center, ground floor), and 'Nativities from Around the World' (Real Collegiate Church of San Isidoro, December 22 to January 9). Also, the León Nativity Scene Association organizes its traditional nativity scene contest, among families, parishes, schools, groups, and brotherhoods.

Little ones can enjoy all of them-spread across seven locations in the city-until Sunday, January 9. There is also an ice rink for skating, about 600 m2, next to the Building of the Junta de Castilla y León (Eras de Renueva), which will operate until January 9. The hours are Monday to Friday, from 16:00 to 22:00; and Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, from 11:00 to 15:00 and 16:00 to 22:00.

There will be almost thirty. Among them, the 'City of León Christmas Gift and Craft Fair' (until Thursday, January 6, Ruiz de Salazar Street), 'XXV Special Christmas Romantic Market' (December 18 and 19, Sierra Pambley Street, 2), 'Traditional Agricultural Products Market at Plaza Mayor' (December 18, 22, 24, 29, 31; January 5 and 8), and 'Sunday Market 'Rastro' (December 19, 26; January 2, 9, Paseo de Papalaguinda).

From December 25 to January 1, the best magicians in the world will bring their fantasy to the capital of León in an event structured this year into 9 segments: 'Magic in the Street', 'Social Magic', 'Spaces with Magic' (bars, restaurants, hotels), 'School of Magicians', 'Magic Route', 'León, Magical Province', 'Solo Gala Jeff Toussaint' (December 26, at the Ciudad de León Auditorium), and the 'International Gala The Best Magicians in the World' (December 28, 29, 30, and 31; and January 1, in 11 sessions morning, afternoon, and evening).

The most awaited day for children will kick off on Wednesday, January 5, at 12:00, with the arrival of Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar at the train station on Av. Palencia. In the afternoon, the Parade will start at 18:00 at the esplanade of the Junta de Castilla y León and will end on Av. Ingeniero Sáenz de Miera. Six illuminated floats will participate- distributing 250,000 gluten-free lollipops-and 280 companions, including performers, actors, monitors, and skaters. A 1963 Magirus fire truck ladder will be restored, and various street art companies will participate, including the French groups Mademoisselle Paillette and Compagnie Karnavires, and the Galician group Culturactiva.