With the arrival of winter, Ticino transforms into a true Christmas wonderland: illuminated squares, craft markets, and the scents of sweets and spices create the perfect setting to enjoy the
festive atmosphere. If you’re looking for where to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit in the Canton, here are 5 events you absolutely cannot miss.
1. Christmas in Piazza, Lugano
From November 27, 2025, to January 6, 2026, Lugano dresses up for the holidays with Christmas in Piazza. The city center, especially Piazza della Riforma, becomes the beating heart of the Christmas celebrations. Among the market stalls, you can discover local crafts, decorations, and Ticino specialties, while small food chalets offer hot drinks and traditional dishes. Parco Ciani, framed by lights, hosts an ice-skating rink set in nature: a truly magical experience for families, couples, or friends.
Useful Info:
Market hours: Via Nassa and Piazza Dante: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily. Piazza Manzoni: Sun–Wed 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Thu–Sat 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Food chalets: Mon–Wed 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Thu–Fri 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Sat & pre-holidays 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM, Sun 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM.
Ice-skating hours: Nov 27 – Dec 22: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Wed 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Sat–Sun 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM / Dec 23 – Jan 6: daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM / Jan 7 – Feb 1: Wed 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Sat–Sun 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
Parking: There are no dedicated event parking spaces; it is recommended to use the city’s covered parking garages or public transport to avoid traffic.
Source and official website: https://luganoeventi.ch/it/natale-in-piazza/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. Winterland, Locarno
In Locarno, Piazza Grande and the historic center become the stage for Winterland, a winter village animating the city from November 20, 2025, to January 6, 2026.
One of the most enchanting features is the audiovisual show “A Hug of Stars,” projected every hour onto historic facades, creating a wonderful fairytale atmosphere. The village also offers a Christmas market with handcrafted products, live concerts, an ice-skating rink, a two-story craft carousel, and a diverse food area: from raclette and crêpes to burgers and international cuisine.
Useful Info:
Village hours: Mon–Tue 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Wed 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Fri 4:30 PM – 2:00 AM, Sat & pre-holidays 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM, Sun & holidays 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM.
Market stalls: daily 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; on holidays hours may extend to 9:00 PM.
Parking: nearby parking is limited and paid; the most convenient are Parcheggio Centro Castello and Parking Centro Locarno. Public transport is recommended.
Source and official website: https://winterland-locarno.ch/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Christmas Market, Bellinzona
A classic not to be missed: on the two Sundays before Christmas, Bellinzona’s historic center comes alive with its traditional Christmas market. With about 200 stalls, the Bellinzona Merchants’ Association sets up colorful roofs, Christmas music, and plenty of craft and food offerings. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the authenticity of Ticino’s Christmas in a genuine, typical atmosphere.
Useful Info:
Hours: December 14 and 21, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Parking: Available in the city; it is recommended to use parking lots near the historic center or Viale Stazione to conveniently access the market.
Source and official website: https://nataleincitta.ch/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. The Elves’ Path – Rancate
On November 29, 2025, in the historic center of Rancate (near Mendrisio), The Elves’ Path returns, a Christmas market like no other. More than 40 exhibitors offer regional products and decorations, while dancing elves and singers animate the Tavern and Workshop, allowing children (and not only them) to experience the magic of a fairytale Christmas.
Useful Info:
Hours: November 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
Parking: Available in the village center; it is recommended to use municipal parking areas near the historic center to conveniently reach the event on foot.
Source and official website: https://www.ticino.ch/it/events/details/la-via-degli-elfi-mercatino-di-natale/11647.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
5. Winter Lights – Piumogna Waterfall (Faido)
One of the most enchanting Christmas experiences in Ticino takes place in Valle Leventina, at the Piumogna Waterfall, with the Winter Lights event: the waterfall lights up, creating a magical path in nature. Every evening, you can stroll along illuminated trails, picturesque huts, and fairytale views, immersing yourself in a magical atmosphere that combines the charm of winter with the warmth of the holidays. An intense and authentic experience, far from the city bustle.
Useful Info:
Hours: December 1, 2025 – January 6, 2026, every evening from 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM.
Parking: There is no official dedicated parking; the best option is to leave your car in the municipal parking lots of Faido or nearby and then reach the path on foot.
Source and official website: https://www.ticino.ch/it/events/details/luci-dinverno-cascata-piumogna/11492.html
Make your Christmas unforgettable: book your stay in one of our apartments in Lugano, Bellinzona, Mendrisiotto, or Valle Leventina and experience these unique events up close. Discover all options in the dedicated section of our website.
