President Luis Abinader inaugurated “Villa Navidad 2025” on 1 December 2025, transforming the gardens in the area of the Palacio de los Deportes in the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center into a vibrant, festive area bathed in multicolored lights. With the inaugural ceremony, he officially launched the government’s national holiday initiative, “La Brisita Navideña” (The Christmas Breeze) program, which runs until early 2026.
The celebratory event, attended by hundreds, was marked by a dazzling spectacle of lights, Christmas carols, theatrical performances, music, and an atmosphere of immense joy and excitement. President Abinader was accompanied by First Lady Raquel Arbaje, Santo Domingo Mayor Carolina Mejía, and Banco de Reservas president Leonardo Aguilera.
The ceremonial lighting of “Villa Navidad 2025” was carried out by children, captivating the crowd that filled the venue for the opening ceremony.
“This is a time for love, joy, unity, and hope. Let us leave all negativity behind and remember the positive, the optimism for a new year,” President Abinader stated during his address, speaking above the cheers of children and adults.
The President urged citizens to immerse themselves in the “magic of this multicolor spectacle,” which features all the traditional Christmas characters. The display, mounted through the collaboration of various state institutions and the private sector, was described by the President as “a special experience, made with love, hope, and dedication.”
The festive, family-oriented space will be open to the public every day from 6pm to 10pm, with the exception of December 24 and 31. Entry is free.
Beyond the stunning light displays, Villa Navidad will host nightly cultural, artistic, and recreational activities for the entire family. Visitors, from children to adults, marveled at the elaborate installations featuring traditional characters such as Santa Claus, reindeer, elves, penguins, polar bears, and snowmen. The venue is adorned with brightly lit Christmas trees and stations offering sweets, drinks, and other holiday treats.
The inaugural night concluded with the musical performance, “La Fábrica de Dulces 2025” (The Candy Factory 2025), a combination of fantasy, song, children’s characters, and the much-anticipated appearance of Santa Claus. Organizers noted that the annual event continues to draw an increasing number of visitors.
The holiday program extends nationwide, with Vice President Raquel Peña scheduled to lead the inauguration of Villa Navidad in Santiago de los Caballeros today.
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Hoy
2 December 2025