January in Italy may be quieter than the summer months, but it’s packed with culture, tradition, fashion, and great opportunities to explore without the crowds. From iconic festivals and fashion weeks to free museum days and winter food experiences, here are 12 events happening across Italy in January 2026 that expats shouldn’t miss.
🔥 Fòcara di Sant’Antonio – Novoli, Puglia
Dates: 6–25 January 2026 (main event 16–18 January)
One of southern Italy’s most spectacular winter traditions, the Fòcara is the largest bonfire in the Mediterranean. Built from over 80,000 vine branches, it celebrates Sant’Antonio Abate with music, food stalls, art installations, and fireworks.
🔗 https://www.vivalapuglia.it/eventi/festa-sant-antonio-focara-novoli/
👔 Pitti Uomo – Florence
Dates: 14–17 January 2026
Held at the Fortezza da Basso, Pitti Uomo is one of the world’s most influential men’s fashion fairs. Even non-industry visitors love the street style, pop-up events, and creative buzz around Florence during these days.
🔗 https://www.pittimmagine.com
🧥 Milan Men’s Fashion Week – Milan
Dates: mid-January 2026
Following Pitti Uomo, Milan becomes the global capital of men’s fashion with runway shows, designer presentations, and citywide events. Expect a vibrant atmosphere even if you’re just people-watching.
🔗 https://www.cameramoda.it
🎬 Trieste Film Festival – Trieste
Dates: 16–24 January 2026
Italy’s leading winter film festival focuses on Central and Eastern European cinema. Screenings, talks, and workshops take place in historic venues across Trieste.
🔗 https://triestefilmfestival.it/en/
🏛️ Free Museum Sunday – Nationwide
Date: Sunday, 4 January 2026
On the first Sunday of every month, state museums and archaeological sites across Italy are free. A perfect excuse to visit iconic landmarks or local museums you’ve been meaning to explore.
🔗 https://cultura.gov.it/domenicalmuseo
🛍️ Winter Sales (Saldi Invernali) – Nationwide
Dates: throughout January (regional variations)
January is prime shopping season in Italy, with discounts on clothing, shoes, and home goods. Dates vary by region, but most sales are in full swing mid-month.
🔗 https://italyonfoot.com/italy/winter-sales-in-italy/
🎭 Early Carnevale Events – Venice & Viareggio
Dates: mid-January previews
While Carnival peaks later, January often brings early masked events, exhibitions, and themed evenings — especially in Venice and Viareggio.
🔗 https://www.carnevale.venezia.it
🔗 https://www.carnevaleviareggio.it
⛸️ Ice Skating Villages – Rome, Milan & Turin
Seasonal ice rinks and winter villages remain open through January, offering skating, food stalls, and family-friendly activities in major cities.
🔗 https://www.turismoroma.it
🔗 https://yesmilano.it
🎶 Winter Concert Season – Major Cities
Opera houses and theaters across Italy host classical concerts, jazz performances, and special winter programs throughout January.
🔗 https://www.teatro.it
🍷 Food & Wine Experiences – Tuscany, Piedmont & Sicily
January is ideal for quieter winery visits, olive oil tastings, and seasonal food events — perfect for expats who prefer authentic, crowd-free experiences.
🔗 https://www.dolcevia.com/en/events/italy-in-january/
❄️ Winter Festivals & Ski Events – Alps & Dolomites
From snowshoe hikes to après-ski concerts, mountain towns come alive in January with winter sports and food festivals.
🔗 https://www.dolomiti.it
🍫 Chocolate & Artisan Sweet Events – Northern Italy
While major chocolate festivals take place later, January often features artisan markets, tastings, and workshops in cities like Turin and Bologna.
🔗 https://www.turismotorino.org
✨ Final Tip for Expats
January is one of the best months to explore Italy like a local — fewer tourists, lower prices, and plenty of cultural events. Whether you’re newly arrived or long-term resident, it’s the perfect time to get out and discover something new.
