Italian holiday destinations announce 2026 Christmas programs

Several Italian regions have unveiled their holiday programming for the 2026 Christmas season, focusing on traditional markets and seasonal attractions.

In Lignano Sabbiadoro, the “Natale d’A…Mare” event is scheduled to begin on December 5, 2026. The coastal town will feature a Ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, and a Santa Claus Village. A notable addition to this year's Sand Nativity Scene is a dedication to the memory of the 1976 Friuli earthquake. The festivities will include the Villaggio del Gusto in Parco San Giovanni Bosco, offering local gastronomy and handicrafts.

In the Val Gardena region of the Dolomites, Ortisei and Selva di Val Gardena will host Christmas markets from November 28, 2026, to January 6, 2027. The Ortisei market, known as Nadel Urtijëi, will highlight Ladin traditions and local woodcarving artistry. These alpine celebrations aim to combine seasonal festivities with early-season skiing opportunities.