LivingTravelDecember events and festivals in Milan, Italy

December events and festivals in Milan, Italy

Milan, Italy, is a gem of a city best known as a hub of fashion and culture, but in December the city comes alive with celebratory festivals, street fairs, and holiday events that begin at the beginning of the month. For travelers prepared for cold weather (and maybe even snow), Milan is a beautiful escape to enjoy the sounds and sights of the season.

December festivals and events

  • Hanukkah: Hanukkah in Milan is celebrated in various synagogues throughout the city for 8 nights from December 2, 2018 to December 10, 2018. There is a spectacular large public Menorah traditionally established in Piazza San Carlo.
  • La Scala Theater : Although it is not exclusive to the month of December, the Christmas season is an especially good time to enjoy a concert at the beautiful La Scala Theater, one of the best historical opera houses in Italy. The decorations along the streets and the festive atmosphere add a unique touch to a night out of culture.
  • Oh Bej! Oh Bej! This flea market festival is one of the most popular festivals of the year in Milan and is held from December 7, 2018 to December 10, 2018. Coinciding with the feast of Sant’Ambrogio, the patron saint of Milan, oh Bej! Oh Bej! It has food, wine and handicraft vendors around Piazza Sant’Ambrogio. Special church services are also held in the Duomo (Cathedral) for this occasion.
  • Holiday for the Immaculate Conception: On this day, the Catholic faithful celebrate the day of the conception of Jesus from the Virgin Mary. December 8 is a national holiday, so many businesses may be closed in observance, but most tourist services should be open.
  • Milan Christmas Markets: From December to early January, a Christmas fair near the Duomo is where Milanese and visitors go to shop for Italian-made Christmas crafts, children’s toys, and seasonal treats. There is also a popular Christmas craft fair called L’Artigiano en Fiera , which is held at the Fiera complex in Rho.
  • Christmas Day – You can expect everything to be closed on Christmas Day as Milanese celebrate the most important religious holiday of the year. Of course, there are many ways to celebrate Christmas in Milan, from attending midnight mass in the Duomo to visiting Christmas nurseries and nativity scenes in the city, usually on display until January 6. It’s a good idea to make a reservation for lunch or dinner on Christmas Day, as many establishments may be closed during the holidays.
  • St. Stephen’s Day: December 26 is a public holiday and is considered an extension of Christmas Day. Families venture to see nativity scenes in churches and visit Christmas markets. The feast day of Santo Stefano is also celebrated on this day and is celebrated especially in the churches that venerate Saint Stephen.
  • New Year’s Eve (Festa di San Silvestro): Like all over the world, December 31, which coincides with the Feast of San Silvestre (San Silvestro), is celebrated with much fanfare in Milan. If you want to go to a special dinner or party, be sure to book in advance.

 

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