Italy is worth a trip all year round, but it definitely shines during the fall and winter seasons. Why? The big cities and landmarks are free from tourists, and the weather is still mild. Most importantly though? There’s a ton of seasonal events and festivals taking place all over the country. That’s why we’re going over the Best Fall & Winter events in Italy. If you’re after that authentic Italian experience, you’ll want to check these out.
Eurochocolate
October 13-22, 2017 | Perugia (Umbria)
This week-long food festival is dedicated to all things chocolate. Stalls loaded with chocolate truffles, liquors, lollipops, organic slabs, pralines, and hot chocolate. The whole city center smells amazing. Plus, there are cooking demonstrations and almost entirely too many free samples. Undoubtedly the sweetest festival, it deserves being mentioned first among the best Fall & Winter events in Italy.
Venice Biennale
May 13-November 26, 2017 | Venice (Veneto)
Every two years, Venice puts on its world-famous Biennale art festival. Exhibitions are set in the main Biennale Garden pavilions and in private palazzi across the city. It’s a great chance to see contemporary art against the backdrop of the one-of-a-kind city.
White Truffle Festival
October 7-November 26, 2017 | Alba (Piedmont)
The most famous truffle fair in Italy! It includes a wide range of culinary attractions, and the most expensive truffles. Many of these coveted white truffles sell for thousands of dollars! They also hold a Donkey Palio, a race that dates back to the 13th century.
Olive Festival
2nd weekend of October, 2017 | Sannicandro di Bari (Puglia)
This weekend-long celebration of olives has been going for over 30 years. Here you can find a wide array of all things featuring the titular ingredient. Olive focaccia, extra-virgin olive oils, cooking demos, and plenty of samples.
Chestnut Festival
October 8-29, 2017 | Marradi (Tuscany)
The Chestnut Festival is all about the local Marroni chestnuts. They’re a law-protected harvest (Marrone del Mugello IGP), and one of the highest quality chestnuts in Italy. It doesn’t get more official than that.
During this time, you’ll find stalls all over Marradi selling tasty chestnut-based goodies. Indulge your sweet tooth with chestnut cakes such as Torta di Marroni and Castagnaccio. Yes there are even chestnut Cannolo available. And if you’re trying to watch your sugar intake, you can’t go wrong with some traditional roasted chestnuts.
Christmas Markets in the South Tyrol
November 24, 2017 – January 6, 2018 | Trentino Alto-Adige
Christmas markets in Italy are a must-see! While just about every city has one, those in the South Tyrol are particularly charming. Seeing towns all decked out in their holiday best with the snowy mountains in the background? Definitely greeting card worthy. Do some holiday shopping as you get to know the South Tyrolean traditions, foods, and local artisans.
Umbria Jazz Winter
December 28, 2017 – January 1, 2018 | Orvieto (Umbria)
Umbria Jazz’s winter edition features indoor and outdoor concerts, and parades. There are also lunches and dinners featuring live music, as well as gospel singing in the gorgeous cathedral. Everything is set against the lovely medieval backdrop of Orvieto.
Capodanno – New Year’s Eve
December 31, 2017 | All the Main Cities
“Capodanno” or New Year’s Eve, is a big deal all over Italy. Wherever you are, you’ll undoubtedly see fireworks and concerts going on. Although most stores and restaurants are closed on January 1st, keep an eye out for special city events!
Carnevale Celebrations
Carnevale is a very common Christian celebration in Italy. Marking the beginning of Lent, the 40 day period before Easter during which no meat is eaten. Nowadays, Carnevale has lost its religious connotations to become an excuse to dress up, hold parades, and have fun!
Venice Carnevale
January 27-February 13, 2018 | Venice (Veneto)
Arguably the most well known Carnevale celebration, it’s also the oldest. Elaborate masks and costumes are the norm here. There’s a competition for best mask held in St. Mark’s square. Numerous parties and masked balls are also held all over the city.
Viareggio Carnevale
January 27-February 17, 2018 | Viareggio (Tuscany)
Viareggio’s Carnevale celebration is famous for its parade along the local beach. Creative floats depicting politicians, celebrities, showmen, and sportsmen make it a must-see.
Don’t miss the best Fall & Winter events in Italy. You’ll get to experience a different kind of Italy, one that you just might never want to leave…
