Your december Guide to Events & Crucial Dates in Italy
Planning your December in Italy? from festive markets to potential travel disruptions,hear’s a complete overview of key events and things to be aware of,curated for both residents and visitors. As a long-time observer of italian culture, I’ll guide you through the highlights, ensuring you’re well-prepared to enjoy the season.
Festive Cheer: Christmas in Rome & Milan
Italy truly comes alive during December, and two cities stand out for their seasonal offerings.
Rome’s Christmas Tree & Celebrations: This year, Rome is shifting its central Christmas tree location. Due to ongoing construction for Metro Line C, the traditional Piazza Venezia setup has moved to the grand Piazza del Popolo. Expect a notable fir tree, sourced directly from Como, standing at least twenty meters tall, and illuminated on December 8th – a beloved tradition.
Artigiano in Fiera: Milan’s Craft Extravaganza (Dec 6th – 14th): If you’re seeking unique gifts or a taste of global artistry, head to Fiera Milano Rho for Artigiano in Fiera. This is the world’s largest international craft fair, showcasing the work of 2,800 artisans from 90 countries.
Here’s what you can expect:
* Handmade Treasures: Discover fashion, furniture, and a vast array of artisanal products.
* Culinary Delights: Explore 27 international restaurants offering diverse food experiences.
* Easy Access: Reach the fair via Metro Line 1 to Rho Fiera station.
* Free entry: Registration is required, but admission is free.
* More Facts: https://www.artigianoinfiera.it
Important Travel Notice: Nationwide Strike – December 12th
Be aware of potential disruptions if you’re traveling on December 12th.A nationwide general strike, organized by the major trade union CGIL, could impact rail services.
here’s a breakdown:
* Rail Travel: expect possible disruptions from midnight to 9 PM.
* Air travel: Flights are not expected to be affected.
* Rome Local Transport: Atac services in Rome should operate as usual, according to the union.
The strike aims to pressure the government to increase investment in public services and raise wages. It’s always wise to check with your train operator for the latest updates before your journey.
Cultural Celebrations: Santa Lucia & krampus
December isn’t just about Christmas; it’s also a time for unique regional traditions.
Feast of Santa Lucia (December 13th): Celebrate the patron saint of Syracuse, Sicily, and protector of the blind.La Festa di Santa Lucia is marked by festive markets and dazzling light shows across Italy. In northern regions, Santa Lucia takes on a Santa Claus-like role, bringing gifts to children who leave out treats on the night of December 12th. You can learn more about this captivating tradition here: https://www.thelocal.it/20171213/italy-santa-lucia-traditions
Krampus Parade in Castelrotto (December 13th): For a truly unique experience, venture to Castelrotto (Kastelruth) in South Tyrol. This bi-annual Krampus parade is one of the largest in northern Italy.
Expect:
* Spectacular Procession: Around 52 Krampus groups,totaling approximately 1,000 Tuifl (masked figures),will parade through the village starting at 2 PM.
* Festive atmosphere: Enjoy music, food, and drinks at the accompanying Christmas market.
* Alpine Folklore: witness the tradition of Krampus,the half-goat,half-demon creature who,according to folklore,punishes naughty children.
Staying Informed
December in Italy is a vibrant
Worth a look