When the Christmas Season Starts

The holiday season officially begins on December 8th, the Festa dell’Immacolata. Cities and towns across Italy light up with decorations, markets open, and nativity scenes appear in piazzas and shop windows.

Christmas Markets You Should Visit

Bolzano & Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige)

Classic wooden stalls, mulled wine, Alpine charm — arguably Italy’s most magical Christmas setting.

Rome – Piazza Navona

Perfect for families, expats, and anyone who loves street performers, sweets, and holiday colors.

Florence – Santa Croce Weihnachtsmarkt

A mix of German-style Christmas with Florentine elegance.

Naples – Via San Gregorio Armeno

The world-famous street for handmade nativity figures.

What Italians Eat at Christmas

Christmas Eve (La Vigilia – December 24)

• Baccalà
• Fried calamari
• Spaghetti alle vongole
• Seafood dishes (no meat)

Christmas Day (December 25)

• Lasagne or cappelletti in brodo
• Roast lamb or veal
• Artichokes and roasted winter vegetables
• Panettone, pandoro & torrone

Santo Stefano (December 26)

Leftovers — but Italian leftovers are practically gourmet.

Italian Christmas Traditions

Midnight Mass

Held nationwide, including the iconic Vatican celebration.

Nativity Scenes (Presepi)

Every region has its own style, including live reenactments in many villages.

La Befana (January 6)

The Christmas season ends with the good witch bringing gifts and sweets for Epiphany.

What’s New for Christmas 2025?

• Longer holiday light displays in major cities.
• More high-speed holiday trains to make travel easier for expats.
• Expanded public concerts in Rome, Milan, and Naples leading into the 2026 Jubilee events.
• Excellent snow forecasts for Alpine ski areas.

‍ Tips for Expats Spending Christmas in Italy

• Visit at least one Christmas market.
• Book Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals early.
• Explore decorated medieval villages.
• Join expat meet-ups, events, or community Christmas dinners.
• Try Italian holiday cooking traditions.

Final Thoughts

Christmas in Italy is a celebration of beauty, community, and culture. From festive lights to delicious food, from centuries-old traditions to modern celebrations, 2025 will be a magical year for expats across Italy.

Whether you’re visiting markets, attending events, or sharing meals with new friends, you’ll feel the warmth
of Italian hospitality throughout the season.