During the holiday season, Lake Como is wrapped in magic: lights dance on the water, historic villas glow, and villages come alive with voices and music. It’s the perfect time to treat yourself to a break and bid farewell to the ending year in a truly special atmosphere. That’s why we’ve created a guide bringing together ideas and experiences for every travel style, from the most exclusive proposals to open-air celebrations, so you can experience midnight on the lake exactly as you imagine it. Enjoy the read!
Special events for an unforgettable night
New Year’s Eve Cruise on Lake Como
For those dreaming of a truly special New Year’s Eve, an evening cruise on Lake Como is an unforgettable way to say goodbye to the year coming to an end. On board an elegantly decorated boat for the festive season, the evening begins with boarding in Como in the early evening and continues with a full gala dinner served during the cruise, accompanied by live music or a DJ set. The boat glides slowly along the illuminated shores, offering privileged views of historic villas and festively decorated villages. As midnight strikes, the toast takes place in the heart of the lake, while fireworks light up the sky and reflect on the water’s surface, creating a unique and unforgettable spectacle.
New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner with gourmet experiences
For those who wish to welcome the new year with a touch of elegance and outstanding cuisine, Lake Como offers unmissable venues for a truly memorable evening.
The Palace Hotel Como proposes a refined New Year’s Eve dinner in a historic lakeside setting, with a contemporary-inspired menu designed for those who love a chic and sophisticated atmosphere. At Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, New Year’s Eve becomes an iconic experience: beautifully decorated halls, top-level entertainment, impeccable service, and gourmet dishes created to make the night truly unforgettable. MUSA Lago di Como, on the other hand, offers a creative and modern concept, ideal for those seeking a distinctive gastronomic New Year’s Eve, combining signature cuisine with refined design. Three different experiences, all united by the same common thread: celebrating the most dazzling night of the year immersed in the beauty of the lake and absolute culinary excellence.
Check availability and menus directly on the restaurants’ websites:
Villa d’Este: https://www.villadeste.com/it/eventi/il-capodanno-esclusivo-sul-lago-di-como
Palace Hotel Lago di Como: https://www.palacehotel.it/offer/capodanno-al-palace-hotel-lago-di-como/
MUSA Lago di Como: https://www.musacomo.com/capodanno-lago-como
Performance at the Teatro Sociale di Como
For those who wish to spend New Year’s Eve immersed in art and entertainment, the Teatro Sociale di Como offers special events every year that turn culture into a unique way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. This year, with the Capodanno Experience package, guests will be able to attend the ballet Cinderella from the best central seats in the stalls or from the boxes, and then continue the evening with a gala dinner directly on the theatre stage.
More details and menus are available on the theatre’s official website: https://teatrosocialecomo.it/capodanno-experience/
Events for every budget: fireworks and music along the lakefront
Fireworks in Como
The great Lake Como New Year’s Eve classic is the midnight fireworks display in Como, launched from a platform on the lake and visible from the lakefront and Piazza Cavour. It’s the perfect option for those who love open-air celebrations: music, a collective toast, and the magic of fireworks lighting up the sky and reflecting on the water. In the days leading up to the event, the Municipality will publish schedules and information regarding traffic restrictions and closed areas.
Concert in Varenna
In Varenna, throughout the Christmas period and into the first days of the new year, Piazza San Giorgio comes alive with free live music and performances by local bands. On New Year’s Eve, the JAM Live Band will entertain the audience with a pop-dance repertoire, creating the perfect soundtrack leading up to the traditional midnight countdown. It’s an ideal alternative to the classic city celebration, perfect for those who want to enjoy live music and toast to the new year in a more intimate, atmospheric setting, far from the crowds of large squares.
A walk through the villages
For those seeking an authentic New Year’s Eve, one of the most evocative and completely free experiences is strolling through Lake Como villages such as Tremezzo, Menaggio, or Bellagio on the evening of December 31st. Illuminated streets, Christmas decorations, lively little squares, and breathtaking lake views create a magical atmosphere, even without official events. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a toast in local bars, exchange smiles with residents, and admire the small, spontaneous fireworks set off by locals—amid lights reflecting on the water and the emotion of an intimate, genuine night.
