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Richard Gere, one of the biggest names in Hollywood cinema, is coming to Murcia city next week to light the Great Christmas Tree in Plaza Circular. Yes, that Richard Gere. The actor who captivated audiences in An Officer and a Gentleman, Pretty Woman and Days of Heaven is bringing the Christmas magic to Murcia on Friday November 28.

 

What was already promising to be a magical evening is now going to be absolutely unforgettable, a once in a lifetime opportunity for many people.

 

The legendary American actor will be in the Region next week with his family and while his primary visit is to attend a documentary presentation in Madrid for the Hogar Sí Foundation, a cause he's been deeply involved with since 2015, the City Council has seized the opportunity to invite him to preside over Murcia's most anticipated Christmas ceremony.

 

Taking advantage of his time in Spain, they've secured his participation in an event that draws thousands of people to the plaza every single year.

 

The Pretty Woman heartthrob's connection to Spain runs far deeper than a quick appearance at a Christmas tree lighting. He's married to Alejandra Silva, a Spanish activist and businesswoman, and his commitment to social causes that affect this country is genuine and long-standing.

 

But before the tree lighting extravaganza unfolds, Murcia has another spectacular event lined up that will set the tone for the season. This coming Saturday November 22, Plaza del Cardenal Belluga will host the city-wide Christmas lights switch-on for the first time and it's going to be breathtaking.

 

Argentine tenor Martín Savi, one of the most outstanding emerging voices in international music, will perform a stunning repertoire of Christmas carols, accompanied by Ángel Luis Carrillo conducting the UCAM Symphony Orchestra. The show will be a real production, complete with a massive stage, snow effects, smoke and fireworks creating an atmosphere that's going to leave you absolutely spellbound.

 

Then comes the main event. Friday November 28 arrives and Plaza Circular transforms for the lighting of the Great Christmas Tree. This is traditionally one of the most treasured moments in Murcia's Christmas calendar and it's previously attracted some seriously impressive names.

 

Past ceremonies have featured Murcian celebrities like tennis champion Carlos Alcaraz and singer Ruth Lorenzo, as well as national figures including Operación Triunfo winner Rosa López. But this year? This year it's Richard Gere.

 

If you've got any plans for November 28, you might want to rearrange them. Head to Plaza Circular early, grab a good spot and get ready to watch a Hollywood legend bring Christmas to life in Murcia.

 

This is the kind of moment that becomes a story you tell people for years to come.

 

Image: Ariela Ortiz-Barrantes / Wikimedia Commons