Milan, the fashion and cultural capital of Italy, is always a vibrant city to visit. However, visiting Milan in December offers a unique and magical experience. The city is beautifully adorned with Christmas decorations, and there are several festive activities and events to enjoy. In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do in Milan during the month of December.
Christmas Markets: A Festive Delight
One of the highlights of visiting Milan in December is exploring the enchanting Christmas markets. These markets are scattered throughout the city, offering a wide range of traditional crafts, local delicacies, and unique gift items. The most popular Christmas market is held at Piazza Duomo, where you can find everything from handmade ornaments to delicious Italian treats. Another must-visit market is the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! fair, held near Sforza Castle, which has a long-standing tradition dating back to the 16th century.
Piazza Duomo Christmas Market
The Piazza Duomo Christmas Market is a magical place where you can immerse yourself in the festive spirit. Stroll through the beautifully decorated stalls, admire the sparkling lights, and savor the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. You can find unique handcrafted gifts, such as leather goods, jewelry, and ceramics, which make for perfect souvenirs or presents for your loved ones back home.
Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Fair
The Oh Bej! Oh Bej! fair is a historical event that takes place from the 7th to the 10th of December. This vibrant fair celebrates Saint Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan. Here, you can explore a plethora of stalls selling toys, antiques, clothing, and local delicacies. Don’t forget to try the famous “panettone,” a traditional Milanese Christmas cake that is a true delight for the taste buds.
Ice Skating in Milan: Glide into the Festive Spirit
Ice skating is a popular winter activity, and Milan offers several ice rinks where you can indulge in this delightful pastime. Skating under the glistening lights and surrounded by festive decorations is a truly magical experience. One of the most famous ice rinks in Milan is the “Ice Village” in Porta Romana, which offers a large ice-skating rink, a Christmas market, and a cozy lounge area where you can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate.
Ice Village
The Ice Village is a winter wonderland that attracts both locals and tourists alike. Lace up your skates and glide across the ice while enjoying the lively atmosphere and festive music. After skating, take a stroll through the Christmas market, where you can find unique gifts and indulge in delicious street food. The cozy lounge area is the perfect place to relax and warm up while enjoying the festive ambiance.
Christmas Concerts and Performances: Cultural Delights
Milan is renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and December offers a plethora of Christmas concerts and performances. Attending a concert or a ballet performance is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while enjoying world-class entertainment.
La Scala Opera House
No visit to Milan would be complete without experiencing a performance at the legendary La Scala Opera House. During December, La Scala hosts a variety of concerts and ballets, including special Christmas-themed performances. From classical music to festive ballets, the performances at La Scala are sure to leave you in awe.
Teatro degli Arcimboldi
Teatro degli Arcimboldi is another popular venue for performances in Milan. This modern theater hosts a range of events during December, including concerts, musicals, and dance performances. Check their schedule for Christmas-themed shows that will surely captivate your heart and soul.
Conclusion
Visiting Milan in December is a truly magical experience. From exploring the enchanting Christmas markets to ice skating under the glistening lights, the city offers a plethora of festive delights. Attending a Christmas concert or performance at renowned venues like La Scala or Teatro degli Arcimboldi adds a cultural touch to your visit. So, pack your warmest clothes, embrace the holiday spirit, and immerse yourself in the magic of Milan in December.
