Christmas in the Village

An authentic Christmas in the Nebrodi

Christmas in the Village is the festival that transforms the historic center of Mirto into a sprawling nativity scene every year. Nestled in the Nebrodi hills, in the province of Messina, in the heart of Sicily, this small village welcomes residents and visitors with a packed calendar of events running from Boxing Day through Epiphany. Promoted by the Municipality of Mirto together with the Polisportiva Mirto and local associations, the event blends devotion, culture, and popular celebration.

The living nativity and tradition

The symbolic heart of the festival is the living nativity scene, which brings the village alleys to life on December 26th with costumed actors, ancient crafts, and scenes of the Nativity. Alongside the sacred representation, there are events dedicated to Sicilian tradition, such as the "Songs, Stories, and Dances of the Sicilian Nativity" show, which revives popular folk music and dance in the evocative Sala delle Capriate of Palazzo Cupane.

Music, theater, and performance

Music is a core element of the festival. The Premiato Corpo Bandistico "Giuseppe Verdi" performs the "Christmas at the Opera" concert, while the Mother Church hosts New Year's concerts and local choral groups. There is no shortage of musicals, theatrical plays, and entertainment, with the participation of local companies and associations involving both adults and children.

The flavors of the Nebrodi

The connection to the land is also celebrated at the table. The "Nebrodi Treasure Chest" event showcases typical local products, from cheeses and cured meats to specialties made from the renowned Nebrodi black pig. The tastings in the square, organized by local associations, are a perfect opportunity to discover the food and wine of this corner of Sicily.

For the little ones

Plenty of space is dedicated to children, with Santa's sleigh and Santa Claus in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, creative workshops, and the "Waiting for the Befana" party, which closes the long period of festivities on January 6th with joy.

A village to experience

Visiting Mirto during the holidays means immersing yourself in the intimate atmosphere of a Nebrodi village, where the lights, music, and warmth of the community make Christmas an authentic and genuine experience, far from the crowds of mass tourism.