{"id":7132,"date":"2025-11-18T16:13:10","date_gmt":"2025-11-18T15:13:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hotelrelaisbellaria.com\/christmas-in-bologna-traditions-markets-and-events-to-enjoy-together\/"},"modified":"2025-11-18T16:13:10","modified_gmt":"2025-11-18T15:13:10","slug":"christmas-in-bologna-traditions-markets-and-events-to-enjoy-together","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hotelrelaisbellaria.com\/en\/christmas-in-bologna-traditions-markets-and-events-to-enjoy-together\/","title":{"rendered":"Christmas in Bologna: traditions, markets and events to enjoy together"},"content":{"rendered":"
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As Christmas approaches, Bologna lights up, its porticoes turn into theatrical backdrops, and the air fills with scents of history, tradition and festivity.<\/p>\n

Every year, from November to January, the city comes alive with historic markets, centuries-old fairs, cultural events, charity initiatives and convivial moments that make winter a season worth exploring.<\/p>\n

For guests staying at Relais Bellaria \u2014 or for anyone who simply wants to treat themselves to a special lunch or evening at Corbezzoli \u2014 this is one of the most magical times to experience the city.<\/p>\n

The Ancient Fair of Santa Lucia: where Christmas begins in Bologna<\/h2>\n

There\u2019s a precise moment when Christmas \u201ctruly begins\u201d in Bologna: when the stalls of the Santa Lucia Fair appear under the monumental portico of the Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi.<\/p>\n

From November 7 to December 26, 2025, every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., that stretch of Strada Maggiore fills with colours, scents and voices. The tradition is so deeply rooted it has become part of the city\u2019s identity. Its origins date back to the late 16th century, when Pope Gregory XIII gifted a relic of the Saint to the diocese \u2014 the starting point of a journey that, despite Napoleonic suspensions and later revivals, has reached the present day. <\/p>\n

A stroll here blends history and festivity: nativity figurines, nougat, mistocchine, handcrafted decorations and small gift ideas that embody the most authentic spirit of Christmas.<\/p>\n

Christmas Markets in Bologna: a city that lights up<\/h2>\n

Between November and January, Bologna becomes a mosaic of Christmas markets, each with its own personality.<\/p>\n

The French Village in Piazza Minghetti<\/h3>\n

Returning after last year\u2019s absence \u2014 and in great style. From December 5 to 8, 2025, wooden chalets fill the square with the scents of cheeses, spices, biscuits, croissants and French specialties. A little Parisian escape in the heart of the city. <\/p>\n

Porta Galliera Market<\/h3>\n

From November 20, 2025 to January 7, 2026, in Piazza XX Settembre, this market is perfect for travellers arriving from the station \u2014 an ideal place for last-minute gifts before a journey\u2026 or right after stepping off the train. <\/p>\n

The Christmas Fair on via Altabella<\/h3>\n

From November 21, 2025 to January 6, 2026, just steps from Piazza Maggiore. Jewellery, sweets, gift ideas and that unmistakable festive atmosphere of Bologna\u2019s porticoes. <\/p>\n

The Antique Market under the Voltone del Podest\u00e0<\/h3>\n

From December 12 to 24, 2025 \u2014 a dive into the past among rare objects, unique pieces, antiques and curiosities.<\/p>\n

Artisan Markets<\/h3>\n

In December, Bologna turns into a small capital of craftsmanship:<\/p>\n