Things to do in Florence during The Christmas Holidays - Destination Florence

December in Florence: Be.Kind with the lily city

Christmas, events, gifts and kindness: the best of December in Florence with Destination Florence!

December, not just Christmas, is a magical time with many things to do in Florence! Lights and decorations are reflected in the Arno, making the view from Piazzale Michelangelo truly something special. Christmas markets abundant in local products make the squares glow and the Ferris wheel lets us admire the entire city. And we can’t forget Ricciarelli, Cantucci and Panforte!

Be.Kind - Treating Florence with kindness is our chosen theme, given that kindness towards others, local culture, and the city we visit and its spaces is a very powerful tool and the perfect gift to place under the Christmas tree in Piazza Duomo! Are you looking to gift quality products that help local stores? Browse our digital guide to historic Florentine businesses; you'll be spoiled for choice!

Unmissable Events and Things to Do in Florence for Christmas

Florence Ice Village – from December 1 to January 19

The 55-meter high Ferris wheel and the 1300 square meter ice-skating rink (the largest in Italy!) return to Piazzale Vittorio Veneto in Cascine Park! The Christmas village comes to life on December 1, where it will spread festive cheer until January 19, 2025. The Ferris wheel remains even longer, staying in place until the end of March.
Fierucola dell’Immacolata – December 7 and 8

The traditional Fierucola dell'Immacolata in Piazza Santissima Annunziata is not only an opportunity to purchase sustainable, artisanal items, but it’s also a place of exchange and dialogue between voluntary associations and the local community. The fair has always been dedicated to voluntary associations, offering them space to showcase their admirable work.
Florence Lights Up – December 7^th

On December 7^th, the Florence Lights Up light festival will illuminate the main monuments, recounting the themes and values of the #EnjoyRespectFirenze campaign. Instead, the classic lighting of the Christmas trees is set for Sunday 8^th (6 pm Piazza Duomo, 6.30 pm Piazza della Repubblica, 7.30 pm Piazzale Michelangelo).

Shy Society by DRIFT – all December

Palazzo Strozzi presents Shy Society, a spectacular site-specific light installation in the Renaissance courtyard created by the Dutch duo DRIFT, famous for installations, works and performance projects that combine art and technology.

See all events for Christmas in Florence.