The most magical season of the year is beginning in Cyprus — a time when cities are decorated with hundreds of lights, squares fill with music, and the air smells of cinnamon, roasted nuts, and holiday excitement. Residents are already putting up their trees at home. Shopping malls are arranging festive zones, and Saint Vasilis — the Cypriot version of Santa Claus — is preparing once again to bring children joy, smiles, and gifts.
This year, holiday events are starting earlier than usual and will cover almost all cities on the island. Already by the end of this week, Christmas tree lighting ceremonies will take place across Cyprus. Each event will feature concerts, markets, fairy-tale shows, and family programs. Visitors can expect a true atmosphere of Christmas magic.
Where and when will the Christmas tree lighting ceremonies take place?
22 November
Holiday lights will shine for the first time this year in several cities:
- Ayia Napa — 17:00, central square
- Limassol — 17:45, new marina
- Deryneia — 19:20, main square
- Paphos — 17:45, at the Alphamega hypermarket
This marks one of the earliest Christmas season kick-offs in recent years. All locations will host vibrant live performances.
23 November
The festive spirit will reach Avgorou village at 16:00 on the central square.
On the same day at 18:00:
- Nicosia will light its main tree on Eleftheria Square — the heart of the capital.
- Larnaca will hold its ceremony at Apostle Loukas Square in Aradippou, one of the most atmospheric parts of the city, with sweets, live music, and a visit from Saint Vasilis.
28 November
The Christmas tree on Kennedy Square in Paphos will be lit. The festive program begins at 18:30, turning the square into a winter celebration zone.
29 November
Christmas lights will appear once again across the island:
- Ayia Napa — 17:00, new marina
- Limassol — 18:00, Grigoris Afxentiou Square, a traditional gathering spot for families, tourists, and locals
- Larnaca — 17:30, Europe Square
- Akhna — 17:00, central square
All locations will offer live music, markets, street food, and beautiful decorations.
6 December
Liopetri will continue the celebrations — the main Christmas tree will be lit at 16:00 on the central square. Locals are known for their festive decorating traditions, making this ceremony especially warm and heartfelt.
7 December
In Sotira, festive lights will shine at 16:30 near the Metamorphosis of Jesus Church. Holiday kiosks and a concert program will also be part of the event.
Holiday spirit across Cyprus
This festive season promises to be one of the brightest in recent years. Cities across the island will host Christmas markets, concerts, theatre performances, choir events, and children’s entertainment. Both residents and tourists will be able to stroll through decorated streets, enjoy hot chocolate, taste Christmas sweets, and soak up the joyful atmosphere.