Christmas in Bologna 2025: Markets, Lights & Tortellini in Brodo

If you think Bologna is beautiful in the summer, wait until you see it in December.

The city doesn’t just put up a few lights; it transforms. The porticoes shelter you from the winter chill, the air smells of roasted chestnuts (caldarroste), and the entire city seems to be collectively preparing for one thing: the Christmas feast.

While other cities have flashy, touristy markets, Bologna’s traditions are centuries old and deeply authentic.

Here is your complete guide to Christmas in Bologna 2025, including confirmed market dates, what to eat, and the New Year’s Eve tradition that involves burning a giant giant puppet.

December is a magical time to visit, but hotels fill up fast. I recommend booking in the Centro Storico neighborhood so you can easily walk back to your room after the markets.

The 2025 Christmas Markets

Bologna doesn’t have one giant central market; instead, it has specialized fairs scattered across the city center. Here are the three you cannot miss.

1. Fiera di Santa Lucia (The Traditional One)

• Dates: November 7 – December 26, 2025
• Location: Portico dei Servi (Strada Maggiore)
• Best For: Traditional nativity figures and ornaments.

This is the oldest market in Emilia-Romagna. It takes place under the stunning portico of the Church of Santa Maria dei Servi. It feels incredibly cozy because you are sheltered by the high stone arches.

• What to buy: Look for the hand-sculpted terracotta nativity figures (presepi). Bolognese nativity scenes are unique because they include “The Sleeper” (Il Dormiglione)—a character who is always asleep, ignoring the miracle happening around him!

2. Fiera di Natale (The Gift Market)

• Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 6, 2026
• Location: Via Altabella (Next to San Pietro Cathedral)
• Best For: Gifts, jewelry, and sweets.

Located just steps from Piazza Maggiore, this is where locals go to buy stocking stuffers. You’ll find stalls selling scarves, artisanal jewelry, and endless piles of torrone (nougat).

3. The French Christmas Village (The Foodie Pop-Up)

• Dates: December 5 – December 8, 2025 (Short dates!)
• Location: Piazza Minghetti
• Best For: Oysters, cheese, and hot wine.

For one long weekend only, Piazza Minghetti turns into a “Little Paris.” Wooden chalets serve hot croissants, raclette cheese, and French wines. It is packed, loud, and delicious.

• Warning: It is only open for 4 days. If you are in town, do not miss lunch here.

Insider Tip: The markets are best explored in the late afternoon when the lights turn on. Book a Private “Christmas Lights & Markets” Walking Tour

What to Eat: The Holy Trinity of Bolognese Christmas

In Bologna, Christmas is not about gifts; it is about lunch. The menu is strictly traditional.

1. Tortellini in Brodo (The King)

You cannot have Christmas without this dish. Tiny, handmade tortellini (filled with pork loin, prosciutto, mortadella, and parmesan) served in a rich, golden capon broth.

• Where to eat it: Sfoglia Rina or Trattoria Anna Maria.
• The Rule: Do not ask for Tortellini with cream sauce in December. It is considered a crime against tradition.

While Christmas is the peak season for Tortellini, you can find incredible pasta year-round if you know Where to Eat in Bologna.

2. Certosino vs. Panone (The Dessert War)

Bologna has two dense, spiced Christmas cakes:

• Certosino: The rich, expensive version. Dark chocolate, honey, almonds, pine nuts, and candied fruit. It was originally made by monks.
• Panone: The “countryside” version. It’s more like a heavy scone/bread, often made without the expensive candied fruit.
• Taste Test: Go to Paolo Atti & Figli (a historic bakery near the towers) to buy a slice of both.

Make it yourself: It is too late to book a restaurant for Christmas Eve? Book a cooking class instead! Craft your own tagliatelle and spritz under the guidance of a teacher.
Check Availability for this Cooking Class!

Special Events 2025

The Tree Lighting

• Location: Piazza del Nettuno
• Date: Usually the last Saturday of November (Likely Nov 29, 2025). The huge tree is lit up right next to the Fountain of Neptune. It marks the official start of the season.

The “Vecchione” (New Year’s Eve)

• Location: Piazza Maggiore
• Date: December 31, Midnight. If you are here for NYE, get ready for the Rogo del Vecchione (Burning of the Old One). A giant sculpture representing the old year is built by a local artist and set on fire in the middle of the square to “burn away” the bad luck of the past year. It is spectacular, loud, and free.

Weather & Packing: The “Damp” Cold

Do not underestimate a Bolognese winter.

• Temperature: 3°C – 9°C (37°F – 48°F).
• The Real Feel: Because Bologna is humid, the cold “gets into your bones.”
• What to pack: You don’t need snow boots (snow is rare), but you do need a warm wool scarf, gloves, and a heavy coat. The porticoes protect you from rain, but not the cold air.

Summary: Your Christmas Checklist

1. Walk: The Fiera di Santa Lucia under the porticoes.
2. Eat: A steaming bowl of Tortellini in Brodo.
3. Buy: A Certosino cake from a historic bakery.
4. See: The burning of the Vecchione on NYE.

Buon Natale from Bologna!