The Santa Chiara complex in Piazza del Gesù in Naples becomes a Christmas market filled with presepi (Nativity scenes). Buy figures for your own presipio or take a workshop and learn how to make your own presepio! Get your FREE copy of Dream of Italy's Christmas in Italy Guide
La Scala, Milan's world-renowned opera house, traditionally opens its season annually on December 7, Saint Ambrose's feast day. This event is a highlight for Milan's high society.
The Oh Bej! Oh Bej! fair (which translates to "so nice! so nice!") is held each year in the area surrounding Sforza Castle on the feast day of Saint Ambrose, Milan's patron saint. At the fair, visitors can find an ancient Christmas market offering sweets and great Christmas shopping. Get your FREE copy of Dream of Italy's Christmas in Italy Guide
Genoa's Christmas market on Piazzale Kennedy features traditional Christmas crafts and sweets, as well as food, wine, and Christmas cooking lessons. Get your FREE copy of Dream of Italy's Christmas in Italy Guide
December 8 is an Italian and Catholic holiday: the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Cities throughout Italy celebrate with special masses, parades, and music. Many stores remain open for holiday shopping. Get your FREE copy of Dream of Italy's Christmas in Italy Guide
Rome's annual Gospel Festival features superb gospel and spiritual music from around the world. Note: 2016 dates have not been announced yet. Please check the event website for updates.
Cities throughout Italy celebrate Santa Lucia Day on December 13. Sicily hosts an especially large parade on December 13, bringing Santa Lucia's coffin to the Church of Santa Lucia. Another parade is held on December 20 to bring her back to the church's crypt. Get your FREE copy of Dream of Italy's Christmas in Italy Guide
The Cagliari Christmas market will have hand-made crafts and Sardinian food and wine. Get your FREE copy of Dream of Italy's Christmas in Italy Guide
The Pisa Marathon includes a full marathon and half marathon, and starts its course near the Leaning Tower. Note: 2016 dates have not been announced yet. Please check the event website for updates. Dream of Italy's Tuscany Travel Advice Event photo: www.flickr.com/photos/88018410@N04/8056095814/
In the evening of the 23rd of December, little "shepherd" boys and girls fill the streets of Civitavecchia, singing Christmas songs (in particular the traditional local song La Pastorella -- "the little shepherdess") and playing musical instruments in exchange for sweets and coins. The streets are filled with songs and music, a truly lovely traditional Italian Christmas evening. Get your FREE ...
