Pistoia Città del Natale

All throughout the Christmas season, Pistoia is transformed thanks to Pistoia Città del Natale (Pistoia City of Christmas), a program accompanying residents and visitors from late November through to the Epiphany feast day on January 6, guided by art, music and traditions.

From Friday through Sunday and on public holidays, the historic center comes to life with a series of performances, events for children, music and entertainment designed to enliven the city, gift wrapped in the atmosphere of the holidays. 

In the heart of Piazza del Duomo, the frescoed rooms of Palazzo Comunale are now the Casa di Babbo Natale (Santa’s House), a must-see for the little ones. Not too far away, Piazza San Francesco hosts an ice-skating rink, while in Piazza Giovanni XXIII, a large double-decker merry-go-round provides moments of delight in the picturesque setting of the Spedale del Ceppo. 

The main squares are colored with Christmas markets, featuring gift ideas, handmade crafts and products that tell the story of the area. 

Alongside the outdoor initiatives, the Civic Museums of Pistoia are offering extended hours during the holidays plus free admission days for the Civic Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of the Spedale del Ceppo and the 20ᵗʰ Century and Contemporary Art Museum in Palazzo Fabroni. There is no shortage of special events, such as visits to Fernando Melani’s House-Studio. 

To construct your own itinerary among family attractions, cultural events and moments of entertainment, the best way is to consult the complete Pistoia Città del Natale calendar and choose how to experience the city day by day during the holidays.

For details, please see the websites for Pistoia Città del Natale and Visit Pistoia.