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Álvaro Siza Vieira, one of the world's greatest architects, is honoured at Alameda Shop & Spot. The exhibition opens today, 4th December, at 7pm and it will "inform on the architect's defining features, by means of humour and caricature", the promoters declared.

Bombarda Arts District is also the place to savour a grand Christmas. The three Saturdays before Xmas Day, fun and joy are back to the arts quarter in Porto; expect dance, music, creative workshops, an urban art market, videomapping and an installation with Xmas trees especially prepared for the season by artists from Porto, which will later be donated to Charity in town. Ckeck out the programme.

In the run-up to Xmas, take time to go ice skating with your nearest and dearest! Enjoy the heart-warming feeling that this festive season brings, even to the gloomiest of moods, and stroll through Porto, appreciating the Xmas decorations, and ice skating.

Porto is a city worthwhile visiting any time of year, but it is exceptionally magical during the holiday season. December at the Invicta really is the month of happy Holidays with Xmas carolling, Christmas markets and Christmas lights, making Porto one of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

Lights. Lots of lights and magic feelings were not found wanting at the ceremony of the lighting of the Tree in Avenida dos Aliados, in Porto, on 30th November. On the stroke of 6pm, thousands of revellers where already set at Avenida dos Aliados to watch, first hand, the highlight of the Xmas celebration: the lighting of the tree and the Xmas lighting all over the Avenue.

Much more than a lifeless mathematical exercise, chess is the combination of good moves at Bolhão Temporary Market, on 30th November, starting at 3pm. The 5th edition of the "Rápidas" ["Fast", free translation] Tournament, organised by the Porto Chess Association (AXP), with live competitions, is set in the leisure area at the BTM.

In the blink of an eye (!) Christmas is here again and the Municipality of Porto invites everyone to join in, as of 30th November, the Christmas Tree will be lit at Aliados Avenue, at 6pm. Let the holiday season begin!

Xmas is less than a month away and the magic is already in the air. The Santa Claus of the Oceans will be visiting Sea Life Porto, as of 30th November. Father Xmas will dive in an underwater tunnel, he will visit the turtles and the sharks and welcome kids and grown-ups that visit the venue.

Porto can pull the most amazing events on Xmas Holidays; this year's event "Natal à Porta", freely translated as "Xmas by the doorsteps" brings back unexpected concerts in the most iconic buildings in the Invicta.

As the end of year closes in and Christmas celebration is just a few days ahead, the Municipality of Porto invites everyone to join in, as of 30th November the year's greatest feast is served.