Christmas in Cabeça

Between December 7th 2024 and January 1st 2025, Cabeça, a Mountain Village, located in Seia municipality, in Estrela Mountain, becomes the most traditional and eco-friendly Christmas village in Portugal, offering an alternative to the increasingly globalised and commercialised holiday season.

Nestled in Serra da Estrela mountain, this celebration reflects the authenticity and purity of local traditions. Now in its 12th edition, the event proudly excludes Santa Claus, focusing instead on Portugal's deep-rooted Christmas customs.

Visitors are invited to experience the festive spirit in harmony with nature and the community. The programme includes: creative workshops, storytelling sessions, hikes, community crochet events, and more. All decorations are handcrafted by villagers using sustainably sourced natural materials such as broom plants, vines, pine branches, fern leaves, corn stalks, and recycled items. The preparations rely solely on local efforts, with no involvement from commercial companies, ensuring an authentic celebration of sharing, tradition, and simplicity.

The event highlights age-old customs like the midnight Christmas mass, bonfires, traditional baked goods made in the communal oven, and a Christmas market showcasing regional products. As dusk falls, the village lights up with thousands of LED lights, creating a magical ambiance. Cabeça, recognised as the first LED village in Portugal, stands as a symbol of energy efficiency and a commitment to a low-carbon economy. Visitors can enjoy this enchanting mountain village where the community warmly welcomes them into its homes and cheerful traditions.

Closer to the true spirit of Christmas!

You might also like