Lake Garda Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets are the perfect occasion to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas and get to know Italian winter traditions. On Lake Garda, a dynamic and highly historic territory, there are surely plenty of options to soak up the festive atmosphere, as all major towns are transformed into festive wonderlands and become the theatre of various special events.

So, let's find out where the best Christmas Markets will be held!*

Arco

Being one of the most beautiful Christmas markets on the northern Lake Garda, the market in Arco is definitely worth a visit, not only for the variety of its stands, but also for the unique atmosphere and the many activities that will entertain people of all ages.
When? From 17 November 2023 to 7 January 2024.
 

Verona

As the festive season approaches, Verona comes to life with Christmas lights and decorations throughout the city centre. In Piazza dei Signori, you can visit the traditional "Christkindlesmarkt" from Nuremberg featuring handmade products and traditional food and beverages from Bavaria, such as the famous "Glühwein" (mulled wine), the typical cakes "Lebkuchen" and "Stollen", as well as, of course, the inimitable bread with sausage. German traditions merge with Italian culture that can be found at the stalls lined up in the adjoining Piazza Cortile Mercato Vecchio. 
The Arena in Piazza Bra houses an international Crib Exhibition of Verona, featuring more than 400 Christmas cribs from all over the world.
When? From 17 November 2023 to 26 December 2024. Exhibition of cribs from 18 November 2023 to 14 January 2024.

Bussolengo 

The Christmas market of Bussolengo is set up in the central Piazza XXVI Aprile, where stalls and an ice skating rink will be waiting for you, both illuminated by the lights of the big Christmas tree and the Nativity scene.
Just outside the centre of Bussolengo, you can visit the Flover Christmas Village boasting animated scenographies, twinkling decorations, Santa Claus's helpers, elves and artisans presenting their creations.
When? From 28 December 2023 to 10 January 2024 in the centre of Bussolengo and from 4 November 2023 to 7 January 2024 at the Flover Garden Center.
 

Bardolino

The lovely Christmas market on the lakeshore will provide you with fantastic gift ideas to put under the tree. You can also skate on the ice-rink set up for this special season, or enjoy a warm drink in the food court, where you can taste many delicacies inside an igloo. 
When? From 1 December 2023 to 7 January 2024.
 

Malcesine

"Natale a Malcesine" (Christmas in Malcesine) is the official name of the annual festival that does not only feature a traditional Christmas market with various products and handicrafts, but also lots of activities for the entire family. Moreover, children can meet Santa Claus and his helpers in the Castle of Malcesine. A market consisting of 15 small houses with food and wine products will be set up in Piazza Statuto from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and there will be fun entertainment for children in the multi-purpose hall and playground near the town hall. A skating rink and a caterpillar carousel will also be installed.
When? From 8 December 2023 to 7 January 2024. Complete programme here. 

Garda

During this season, Christmas lights and decorations create an incredibly suggestive atmosphere in Garda historic centre and lakeshore, while the little charming wooden stalls offering local produce are the perfect background to the many events and activities organized for the whole family.
When? From 24 November 2023 to 7 January 2024 on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, pre-holidays and holidays. 

Lazise

At the Christmas market in the historic centre of Lazise, you can find many beautiful gift ideas such as handicrafts, food and local produce. Moreover, the little church of San Nicolò, right next to the historic centre, has an artistic Nativity scene on display. 
When? On weekends from 25 November 2023 to 24 December 2023 and everyday from 26 December 2023 to 7 January 2024.  
 

Riva del Garda

In Riva del Garda, children can visit the famous house of Santa Claus, located inside the fortress, a special place where they can give him their letters, turn into elves and create drawings or other works, as well as listen to Christmas fairy tales. Riva also hosts the Christmas Village "Di Gusto in Gusto", a market dedicated to the finest local culinary specialities.
When? On different days from 17 November 2023 to 7 January 2024. Have a look here for opening days and hours.
 

Peschiera del Garda

In Peschiera del Garda, in Piazza Ferdinando di Savoia, you can visit the characteristic Christmas Village with an ice skating rink and a mini railway for the little ones. Peschiera also has an underwater nativity scene, that, as the name itself suggests, is pretty unique thanks to its position. The scene can be enjoyed and captured from San Giovanni bridge and its tradition dates back to 1980.
When? From 24 November 2023 to 14 January 2024.

Are you also interested in weekly Lake Garda markets throughout the year? Read our story! 

*The days indicated may be changed.