Christmas at the Castle in Soriano nel Cimino

Christmas in the village of Castello Orsini

When December arrives, Soriano nel Cimino — a village perched on the slopes of Monte Cimino in the province of Viterbo — lights up for its most anticipated winter event. Originally launched as The Magical Castle of Santa Claus and now promoted as Christmas at the Castle, the festival turns Castello Orsini and the historic center's streets into a Christmas village that enlivens every weekend of the holiday season, from the Immaculate Conception long weekend through to Epiphany. Organized by the Pro Loco of Soriano nel Cimino with the support of the Municipality and local associations, it has become one of the most popular Christmas events in the Tuscia and Upper Lazio regions.

Santa's House in the fortress

The heart of the event is Santa's House, set up in the most evocative rooms of the fortress built by the Orsini family in the 13th century. Children can meet Santa Claus, hand him their letters in person — which can also be mailed directly from the castle — and participate in creative workshops led by elves and entertainers: Christmas-themed painting, magic wand making, wooden games, face painting, archery, and even an escape room set within the medieval walls.

Markets and flavors of Tuscia

In the area outside the castle, along Via della Rocca and the streets of the upper village, the Christmas market unfolds: stalls and booths filled with ornaments, wooden crafts, ceramics, leather goods, jewelry, gift ideas, and traditional food products. The food and wine stands offer the flavors of the Cimini Mountains — chestnuts and roasted chestnuts above all, along with hot chocolate, sweets, and traditional Viterbo dishes — for a delicious break between one stall and the next.

Shows, music, and entertainment

The weekend program alternates magic shows, animated storytelling like "The True Story of Santa Claus: from Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus," band concerts, performances by the Francesco Suriano Polyphonic Choir, and Christmas street bands parading through the historic center. There are also raffles, treasure hunts, and chocolate tastings, culminating in the grand Christmas raffle that closes the event.

A medieval village to discover

The setting is one of the most beautiful villages in Lazio: Soriano nel Cimino, dominated by the bulk of Castello Orsini, preserves a medieval historic center of alleys and stairways and is surrounded by the ancient beech forest of Monte Cimino, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town, famous in autumn for its historic Chestnut Festival, finds its natural winter extension in Christmas at the Castle: an opportunity to visit the fortress, stroll through the illuminated village, and discover the gastronomic excellence of Tuscia.

Information and organization

Admission to the event is free. The markets open in the late morning, food stands from lunchtime, and children's entertainment in the afternoon. The detailed program for each weekend is published by the Pro Loco of Soriano nel Cimino on their website and social media channels.