Christmas in Portugal — And Around the World
A community photo project celebrating the season, near and far.
Dear Readers,
Every November/December, Portugal lights up with a warmth and sparkle that is uniquely its own, from dazzling city squares to small-town nativity scenes and festive markets that glow long after sunset. It’s become one of my favorite times of the year living in Portugal.
This year, I’d love to share that beauty through your eyes celebrating Christmas in Portugal and around the world.
I’m excited to announce a special community project:
Christmas in Portugal — And Around the World
A photo-only holiday video created from images shared by Our Portugal Journey readers, followers, and friends.
Whether you live in Portugal, have visited during the holiday season, have visited somewhere else during the holidays, or are celebrating Christmas somewhere else in the world, I invite you to contribute a favorite photograph that captures the spirit of the season where you are.
How to Participate:
Theme 1: Christmas in Portugal
Photos of:
Christmas lights or illuminated streets
Nativity scenes, or church displays
Holiday markets, concerts, trees, or festive village squares
Seasonal decorations that capture the Portuguese holiday feeling
Theme 2: Christmas Around the World
For readers outside Portugal, please feel free to send:
Festive city scenes
Christmas markets
Iconic holiday displays
Light installations
Architectural or cultural Christmas highlights from your location
Submission Guidelines
To keep the project consistent and respectful of privacy:
Photos only (no videos or AI-enhanced images)
JPG format preferred
Vertical or horizontal images welcome
Avoid close-up photos of identifiable people (especially children)
Scenic, architectural, or public holiday displays are ideal
You must own the rights to the photo
When submitting, please include:
Your first name
The country you currently reside in
If you’re a Substack creator, feel free to include the name of your publication
The city/town + country where the photo was taken
A short caption (optional but helpful)
Email your photo to: hello@ourportugaljourney.com
Those photos that are selected will be compiled into a festive community video and will be published on Our Portugal Journey, YouTube, and social media in mid-December.
You are also welcome to share the finished video with your family, friends and subscribers.
A Note on Privacy
Please avoid close-ups of identifiable people, especially children. Scenic or public-space shots are perfect.
By submitting, you confirm that you own the rights to your image and grant permission for it to appear (with credit) in Our Portugal Journey’s 2025 Christmas video and related posts.
Deadline to Submit:
Monday, December 8, 2025
Email your photo to: hello@ourportugaljourney.com
Why This Project Matters to Me
The heart of Our Portugal Journey has always been connection - between readers and me and Paul, sharing insights, travel and expat stories, images, everyday discoveries, and a sense of place. This project brings those stories together visually, creating a warm, shared experience of the holiday season both here in Portugal and around the world.
I can’t wait to see what you share.
Feliz Natal e Boas Festas!
Carol
Carol,
What a great idea. Might want to borrow for your favorite wine. Cheers!
Brilliant, Carol. Cross-posting to Portugal Calling. 🙂