5 Christmas markets in Abruzzo not to be missed this year

To immerse yourself in the Christmas atmosphere and experience the magic that is created, you must visit the Christmas markets in Abruzzo, a special opportunity to discover a fascinating side of this region. In summer you can enjoy the sunny beaches and the entertainment on offer, as well as walks in the mountains from which you can admire wonderful views.

At Christmas time, on the other hand, you will find yourself in an exciting holiday atmosphere, with festivities and themed decorations that will amaze you and give you true and authentic emotions. The discovery of local traditions, such as the living cribs, are emotions that will make you appreciate these places of unique natural beauty even more. If you have time to also visit the surrounding area, we recommend that you also breathe in the magical air of the surroundings to take home an unforgettable memory. So let's set off to discover the Christmas markets in Abruzzo to experience a truly special holiday!

In the province of L'Aquila, "Il Borgo incantato" comes to life in Campo di Giove. It is an event repeated every year, in 2023 the dates are: 25 and 26 November, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 December, 4, 5, 6, 7 January 2024.

It takes place in the historic centre of this village at the foot of the Maiella massif. The streets are festively adorned with lights, decorations and Christmas trees; little wooden houses sell sweets, handicrafts and local products. Will you find your missing Christmas present here?

In the historic centre of L'Aquila on 15, 16 and 17 December 2023, the Christmas markets in Abruzzo will be set up, which this year will be Harry Potter-themed. It promises to be a unique and mysterious experience, with stalls, workshops and truly magical animations!

The medieval village of Crecchio is transformed into a Christmas village offering many activities. Santa Claus's house is not to be missed to cheer up all the children, and the nativity scene is a classic that completes the scenario. From 1 to 17 December, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, there will be entertainment for children, accompanied by musical events that create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Live performances will entertain spectators of all ages, along with the local culinary delights available at all the stalls. Every child, before going home, will be able to write his or her own letter together with the elves and then hand it over to Santa Claus.

In the province of Pescara, you can prepare for Christmas with The Village set up in Caramanico Terme. 2023 sees its fourth edition and will run from 18 November to 24 December on all weekends. It will then pause on Christmas Day and reopen every day until 7 January 2024. It is mainly aimed at children, with merry-go-rounds, the toy train, entertainment with elves and Santa Claus.

Ice skating will complement the other activities available, such as horse riding and snowshoeing, dedicated to the whole family. Sweets and typical local products, to be tasted or given as gifts, complete a celebration in full swing, in a characteristic village that is dressed in illuminations to create a magical aura for the occasion.

In Avezzano, the Magie di Natale event starts on 8 December 2023 and ends on 6 January 2024. The fifth edition of this event includes an ice skating ring and Santa Claus's little train, which are very popular with children. Families, on the other hand, will be able to enjoy the shows and concerts staged in the heated tent theatre to complete a fun-filled day.

The unmissable wooden huts offer sweet and savoury delights: along with the classic sweets, you can enjoy arrosticini and local delicacies that will make you better acquainted with Abruzzo's gastronomic culture.

An immersion in the Christmas markets in Abruzzo by train, an experience on a historic train, to get to know the natural beauty of this region from a different perspective. It takes place on a vintage train of the Italian FS Foundation and is scheduled for 25 and 26 November, and in December on 2/3/8/9/10/16/17/22 and 23.

Departure and arrival are in Sulmona, destinations are Roccaraso, Campo di Giove and Castel di Sangro. During the trip you will be able to admire the landscape, perhaps snow-covered, and enjoy a different and truly fascinating experience. If you have a few days off, you could extend your tour to Rome and treat yourself to a visit to the city with our Visit Rome Pass. Which souvenirs do you want to take home from the Christmas markets in Abruzzo?