The holiday spirit is alive and well this coming weekend, December 28th and 29th, 2024, as Northern Italy gears up for an array of festive events, celebrating art, culture, and community. From Padova to Treviso, and beyond, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Starting off with Padova, art enthusiasts won’t want to miss the exhibition "Donna, Musa, Artista. Ritratti di Cesare Tallone tra Otto e Novecento" at the Museo Villa Bassi Rathgeb. This showcase features the works of the prominent portrait artist Cesare Tallone, exploring female representations within Italian society from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Operating hours are set from Wednesday to Sunday, allowing plenty of opportunities to immerse oneself in this stunning artistry.
Also adding to the holiday charm is the exhibition "Il Presepe, arte, tecnica e tradizione" running from December 9th through January 11th at the Scuderie di Palazzo Moroni. Here, visitors can marvel at twenty different nativity scenes which narrate the story of Christmas through artistic expression and craftsmanship. The exhibition is open daily and features segments dedicated to Spanish contributions and the art of nativity scene creation, celebrating the rich traditions of Italy.
Switching gears to another venue, the Tolo Marton Power Trio are set to electrify the stage at the Radio City Hall on December 29th at 9:30 PM. Esteemed guitarist Tolo Marton, often dubbed "a national treasure of Italy" by Roger Glover, bassist for Deep Purple, will deliver an unforgettable performance showcasing his outstanding talent and passion for music. It's bound to be a night filled with incredible sound and energy!
Meanwhile, just north of Padova, Treviso is hosting its own festive happenings. At the Museo Santa Caterina, visitors can join the guided tour "La natività nell'arte" on Sunday, December 29th, allowing attendees to reflect on the beauty of nativity scenes through art.
The holiday festivities continue with various family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. One highlight is the exploration of Treviso’s water-themed history during guided tours. Participants will discover the city’s charming waterways, beautifully illuminated for the holiday season, learning about Treviso’s historical significance at locations like Ponte Dante and the Buranelli area.
The Museum national Collezione Salce is running the exhibition "Schieson Trevisan - Il calendario della tradizione" until December 29th. This exhibit showcases the rich history of the annual calendar first published in 1716, emphasizing its cultural importance through illustrations and contemporary adaptations by local artists. Open until 6 PM, it’s the perfect opportunity to engage with Treviso’s vibrant heritage.
Traveling to Como, the city is alive with holiday magic throughout the weekend. The ice rink at Piazza Cavour will be open daily from 10:30 AM until 11 PM, making it the perfect outing for families and skating enthusiasts alike. The enchanting Christmas tree and festive markets complete the seasonal experience, where you can find unique handicrafts and traditional treats.
On December 29th, Como also features roaming performances by the Lario Brass Band. Musicians will march through the picturesque streets, serenading passersby with festive classics and New Orleans-style tunes. It’s sure to evoke laughs and put smiles on the faces of both young and old!
For those seeking grandeur, the nearby town of Varenna invites visitors to explore its holiday markets and culinary delights, offering delicious local flavors paired with stunning lake views. The finely crafted souvenirs from local artisans can't be missed!
The cultural offerings don't stop there, as concerts and nativity events take center stage across various locations. Families can also attend free performances such as "Il Mago di Oz" at Palazzo Natta for some engaging storytelling.
Across Northern Italy, these events exemplify the engaging blend of tradition and innovation, allowing residents and visitors alike to revel in the wondrous atmosphere of the season. It's not just about celebrating the holidays but keeping alive the appreciation for the arts, community, and the joy of togetherness.
So whether you’re floating leisurely along Treviso’s canals, enjoying live music in Padova, or experiencing the vibrancy of Como’s markets, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained this weekend!