Águeda surprises with the biggest and smallest Santa Claus in the world

THE umbrellas are the symbol with which Águedaa city located in the center of Portugal, has become known throughout the world. Every summer, the Portuguese celebrate “AgitÁgueda – Art Festival”, an event that gives color to this enclave with … the hundreds of umbrellas that decorate its main streets. But in Águeda there are some surprises to discover at Christmas.

Under the title of ‘Agueda in Natal» (“Águeda is Christmas”), the city is transformed into a universe of light, culture and tradition, welcoming thousands of visitors until January 11.

Its streets are filled with emotion, lights and movement. And no one hesitates to take a photo with him. The biggest Santa Claus in the world. In Largo 1.º de Maio, the popular character of Lapland asserts itself with 21 meters highilluminated by more than 250,000 LED lights.

Recognized by Guinness Book of Recordsthis symbolic figure serves as a beacon for the festivities and constitutes an essential point of reference for visitors. Nearby, a giant Christmas tree and a space filled with festive characters, as well as a carousel, Christmas market and food and family attractions, create a complete Christmas experience.

Aerial view of the world's largest Santa Claus — Aerial view of the world’s largest Santa Claus

Agueda Town Hall

But that’s not the only surprise Águeda hides. At the Tourist Office you will find the smallest Santa Claus in the worlda nanosculpture by British artist Willard Wigan, visible only under a microscope. Between the giant bearded Santa Claus and the microscopic Santa Claus, the city celebrates creativity on all scales.

Image of the world's smallest Santa Claus visible only under a microscope — Image of the world’s smallest Santa Claus visible only under a microscope

Mario Abreu

In addition to being able to visit the biggest and smallest Santa Claus, Águeda offers its traditional nursery exhibition (until January 6), exhibiting pieces that evoke memory and craftsmanship. In addition, the Manuel Alegre Municipal Library is hosting the “History of Fado” exhibition until December 31, offering the public a tour of different artistic and heritage expressions.

An “enchanted park” has been set up in Alta Vila Municipal Park, with the entire area lit up with Christmas decorations and several wooden houses offering themed photo booths.

Main image - Citizens celebrate Christmas in a daytime event (above); the historic Vouga train (bottom left); and one of the city center streets with umbrellas and Christmas lights (bottom right) — Citizens celebrate Christmas in a daytime event (above); the historic Vouga train (bottom left); and one of the city center streets with umbrellas and Christmas lights (bottom right)
Mário Abreu/Agueda City Hall

Secondary Image 1 - Citizens celebrate Christmas in a daytime event (above); the historic Vouga train (bottom left); and one of the city center streets with umbrellas and Christmas lights (bottom right) — Citizens celebrate Christmas in a daytime event (above); the historic Vouga train (bottom left); and one of the city center streets with umbrellas and Christmas lights (bottom right)
Mário Abreu/Agueda City Hall

Apart from the usual routes, the Vouga historic train offers a unique experience. The only narrow gauge line still in operation in Portugal invites passengers on a journey through time, passing by the Macinhata do Vouga Railway Museum and connecting with the city’s Christmas atmosphere: a route that combines railway heritage and festive spirit. Trips are available until January 4.