Christmas lights twinkle warmly across the city of Verona, transforming it from its historic roots to a winter wonderland teeming with festive cheer. Known for its rich traditions, Verona celebrates the Christmas season with lively markets and events, captivating both residents and tourists alike.
From the end of November, the city's heart – the Piazza dei Signori – is adorned with the popular Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlmarkt), featuring characteristic wooden stalls. Approximately thirty exhibitors from Upper Germany offer unique gift ideas and typical German handicrafts, including glass, wood, and ceramic decorations. Visitors also indulge in gastronomic specialties like Glühwein (mulled wine) and traditional Christmas sweets like Lebkuchen and Stollen.
Adjacent to this merry venue, the Piazza del Tribunale and the charming Cortile Mercato Vecchio form a Christmas Village replete with dozens of stalls. Here, visitors can discover Italian delights ranging from Christmas crafts to sumptuous Veronese and Venetian cuisine, encompassing tree ornaments and scrumptiously sweet treats galore.
For art lovers, Verona’s Christmas offerings include the illustrious International Review of the Crib, hosted since 1984 within the enchanting archways of the Arena amphitheater. This annual exhibition showcases over four hundred dioramas from across the globe, showcasing crib creations reflecting varying cultural interpretations of the nativity scene.
Adding to the festivities, the Secular Fair of Santa Lucia takes over Piazza Bra from December 10 to 13, attracting hundreds of stalls from across Italy. Visitors flock to purchase toys, clothing, local crafts, gourmet foods, and, of course, sweets. The air is filled with the warmth of holiday spirit, as families enjoy the plethora of choices available.
Another highlight of the Christmas season is the Verona Christmas Run. On the third Sunday of December, this non-competitive foot race invites participants to dress as Santa Claus, promoting fun and solidarity as they run through the historic center, with part of the proceeds benefiting local charities.
Restaurants and trattorias around the city offer rich Christmas lunches and festive Christmas Eve dinners, tempting diners with menus featuring traditional local dishes. The city's theaters also light up with classical concerts, cabaret acts, and engaging performances, showcasing the best of national talent.
The culminating celebration occurs on New Year’s Eve, as the square fills up with revelers. The municipal government organizes large communal gatherings and events throughout the city’s nightlife and dining venues. Exclusive parties take place at Renaissance villas, and gala concert performances are held at theaters, making it clear Verona knows how to ring in the New Year with style.
On January 6, Verona residents participate enthusiastically in the traditional Brusa la Vecia event, meaning “Burn the Old Woman.” A large puppet symbolizing the old year is set ablaze, following ancient pre-Roman customs, marking the end of the holiday season and the renewal of hope for the year to come. This event, celebrated in Piazza Bra underneath the spectacular Comet Star installation, guides the winter’s narrative from festive joy to new beginnings.
Aside from these events, Verona enchants visitors with its mild climate throughout winter. Temperatures range between 41 and 50°F, allowing for enjoyable strolls throughout the city’s historical pathways, where every corner reveals stories steeped in romance and artistic heritage. Visitors can marvel at cultural touchstones such as the Roman Arena and Juliet’s House, iconic landmarks reaffirming Verona’s status as a city of love. The stunning architecture and serene adaptations of the winter markets create picturesque opportunities to savor cinnamon-spiced treats and local wines.
Even as the warmth of winter captivates visitors, Verona emerges as more than just another market destination. Its passion for art is ever-present, with exhibitions at venues such as the Castelvecchio Museum and the Archaeological Museum at the Roman Theater. These establishments invite guests to explore collections chronicling the city’s intriguing history and artistic expressions.
This holiday season, Verona transports its visitors through centuries of tradition wrapped in festive revelry. The city beautifully highlights its cultural heritage, inviting everyone to experience the unique essence of Christmas through its vibrant markets, rich cuisine, and artistic showcases. Verona stands as a heartfelt reminder of how cherished traditions continue to thrive, offering warmth and joy to all who visit.