José Manuel Bolieiro calls for "unity and peace" at opening of nativity scene and Christmas lights at Sant'Ana Palace - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, began the Christmas season by opening the nativity scene and Christmas lights at the Sant'Ana Palace.

The ceremony, held today, featured the special participation of a group from the Free Time Activity Centre (CATL) of the Ponta Garça Intergenerational Centre, linked to the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Vila Franca do Campo. José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the importance of this season for strengthening ties among generations and communities.

"It is a great joy to welcome this group, which brings together young and not-so-young people, in a demonstration of the value of unity and solidarity that we should celebrate, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year," he said.

The head of the Azorean Government took the opportunity to share a message of hope and renewal, emphasising the challenges ahead: "I wish this Christmas season to be a time of peace, tranquillity and stability for all Azorean families. May 2025 be a year of collective success for our Region because unity is the strength of our future."

The nativity scene, created by the Sant'Ana Palace gardeners, is one of the centrepieces of the Christmas celebration and will be open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The event featured cultural moments that made the ceremony special with the performance of traditional Christmas carols that highlighted the spirit of this festive season.