Christmas Day in Italy
When is Christmas Day in Italy?
Christmas Day in Italy is on December 25, 2024. It falls on Wednesday.
How many days until Christmas Day in Italy?
There are 35 Days left until Christmas Day in Italy.
Is Christmas Day a public holiday in Italy?
Christmas Day is a public holiday in Italy, and it is locally known in the country as Natale. It is usually filled with entertainment, feasts and Christmas fairs across the country. Italy is a predominantly Christian country hence it is one of the biggest celebrations of the year. For Christians, Christ is the son of God whom they believe is their savior. Considering that it is a public holiday in the country, most establishments and offices are closed on this day.
Origin of Christmas Day
Every 25th of December, most nations around the world celebrate one of the most festive events of the year, Christmas Day. This holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Numerous historians believe that the modern-day Christmas Day celebration roots back to Italy. Different theories around the world are introduced as to why Christmas Day is celebrated. It has been said that Christmas celebration is associated from ancient Roman’s festival which took place from pre-Christian era, particularly Saturnalia and Pagan traditions.
Christmas Day Events and Traditions in Italy
By tradition, Italians observe the Christmas season from Christmas Eve through Epiphany, which is otherwise known as the Twelve Days of Christmas. They begin the celebration on the 24th of December up until January 6. It is common for Italians to start Christmas shopping and putting Christmas decorations on December 8 which is the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception. Shops and most retailers usually start selling Christmas figures and decorations on this day. There are a number of events, common practices and celebrations that is observed all throughout the country.
Milan's Wonderland Village
Another known city that organizes numerous Christmas events is Milan, the second largest city in Italy. Aside from housing numerous shopping centers, Milan is known for its skyscrapers and famous attractions. Among the well-known attractions in Milan include Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, The Last Supper. On Christmas season, Milan is popular for its Wonderland Village. Wonderland Village is a great place to visit, especially for those who have kids. At Wonderland Village, there are numerous entertainments for both children and adults including but not limited to carousels, roller coasters, Santa clause, ice-skating, wine-tasting, and many others.
Midnight Mass and Nativity Displays
Midnight mass in Vatican has become customary to some people (usually Christians) as part of the celebration. Several religious ceremonies are held during Christmas Day. In addition, most churches have Nativity displays. Among the most known are that in Naples and Vatican City. The celebration of Christmas Day involves Babbo Natale (the equivalent of Santa Claus). Babbo Natale is the Father Christmas.
Oh Bej! Oh Bej! - Milan's Christmas Fare
Another popular thing to do in Milan during Christmas season is the Milanese traditional Christmas fare,
Taking a stroll at decorated Saint Peter's Square
One of the most popular destinations for locals and tourists during Christmas Day is the city of Rome. Rome is known for its unique traditions during Christmas season. People usually visit the city to enjoy its festive feel. It is usually decorated with Christmas lights and giant Christmas trees. In particular, Rome’s city center Saint Peter’s Square is usually where people head to take photos. On this season, Saint Peter’s Square houses large Christmas trees, alongside a nativity scene. During this holiday, most churches across Italy has nativity scene. Another thing that people enjoy is Christmas market in Rome. It holds cheap souvenirs and Christmas figures.
Visiting Italy's world-renowned attractions
Famous artists were Italians hence Italy houses one of the richest cultural achievements (be it in architecture, painting, among others). To mention some, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Donatello and Raphael were from Italy. During Christmas season, many tourists visit the country not just to experience the Christmas celebration in the country, but also to explore the world-renowned attractions in Italy.
Italy's Christmas Sales
For some people, one thing that makes the holiday more interesting is the Christmas sales. Various parts of Italy hold Christmas sales at a certain time of year. There are numerous Christmas markets that are set up across the country. Some Christmas markets run from late November through January such as the ones in Bologna, Sorrento and Frascati. In some parts of Italy, Christmas markets last for few weeks which usually ends on December such as the one in Trento, Florence, Syracuse, Florence, Genoa and many more cities.
Festival of Nemoralia
Festival of Nemoralia, otherwise known as the Festival of Torches is also observed in Italy. This tradition dates back to ancient Romans’ celebration to honor Diana, the goddess of the hunt and moon. In modern day celebration, the Festival of Christmas Torch is celebrated with carols, torchlight on Christmas Eve, particularly on December 24th. Many people would take part in such event by carrying torches while skiing down the Alpine peak.
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December 25 | Wednesday | Christmas Day |
| 2025 | December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| 2026 | December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day |
| 2027 | December 25 | Saturday | Christmas Day |
| 2028 | December 25 | Monday | Christmas Day |
| 2029 | December 25 | Tuesday | Christmas Day |
| Holiday | Date |
|---|---|
| Immaculate Conception | December 08, 2024 |
| Christmas Day | December 25, 2024 |
| Boxing Day | December 26, 2024 |
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