It’s finally that time of year when shop windows begin to glisten, fireplaces start to glow, and holiday cards from back home start filling up your mailbox. But if you are far away from familiar traditions this Christmas, you need not feel nostalgic about the festivities you may be missing. Many towns all over Tuscany have switched on their lights and turned up the festive factor, hosting a range of exciting markets for all ages.
MONTECATINI ALTO Until January 6
Until January 6, this medieval hamlet turns into the very merry ‘City of Christmas.’ New this year is Montecatini Alto’s Small Enchanted Village, which will give children the chance to spend a day with their favourite storybook characters. Terme Tamerici Castle will also be hosting a Father Christmas House, complete with elves, workshops, magical shows, marionettes, and even a Santa Post Office, where kids can share all their Christmas desires with Kris Kringle. For those who want to kick up your feet and warm up those chilly toes, spas in Montecatini will stay open Saturdays and Sundays during the holiday season.
CHIANCIANO TERME Until December 27 Let your Christmas dreams come true with this year’s ‘Father Christmas Land,’ running until December 27. Colourful lights, trees and animated projections will add a whimsical atmosphere to an enchanted Chianciano. The town’s tourist train, Termalino, will transform into the Polar Express, a chance for young and old alike to tour the glistening city streets. Other exciting features include Father Christmas’ Grotto, which will keep children engaged in a range of festive activities, and, of course, a holiday shopping area.
MONTEPULCIANO Until January 6
Foodies and wine lovers will want to put the Montepulciano market at the top of their must-visit list. The town will host its ‘Christmas Village’ until January 6, selling many local specialities, including many wines, cheeses and fresh cold cuts. Families can make their way to the miniature pony ranch and Father Christmas Castle at the Medieval Fort, where there will be festive games, activities, shows, workshops and sing-a-longs. From street food, to shows to activities, there is something for everyone in Montepulciano this Christmas!
SIENA December 5–6
It’s back to the Middle Ages at this year’s Mercato nel Campo, a re-evocation of a major fourteenth century open-air market. Over 150 stalls will line the picturesque piazza del Campo, selling all of the tastiest Sienese winter specialties. Wine lovers can warm up inside at the Cortile del Podestà in Palazzo Pubblico, where a special Vinarte event series will take place.
PISA December 4–8 Check out Santa’s workshop in motion at Father Christmas’ Factory, held at the Palazzo dei Congressi. Hosting a variety of magic and circus shows, art workshops, marionette shows and make-up stalls, Pisa will guarantee a magical day for the little ones and for eager parents.
ABBADIA SAN SALVATORE
December 4–January 6
Abbadia San Salvatore will host the City of Candlesticks, which is looking to host a month long party full of festive cheer! On weekends until January 6, merrymakers will have the chance to go skiing, to visit markets, listen to festive music, attend workshops, visit crib exhibitions and more. Smells and tastes will envelop the medieval town, which will host a special Christmas eve event with carols, a candlelight ritual throughout the historic center, and a chance to taste local treats: the festivities will begin at 6pm.
