Christmas in the Village - Living Nativity

Christmas in the Etna village

When Christmas arrives, Castiglione di Sicilia—one of Italy's most beautiful villages, perched on the northern slopes of Mount Etna in the Metropolitan City of Catania—dons its most evocative attire. For nearly a month, from December 8th to January 6th, the cobbled streets, squares, and ancient churches of the historic center become the stage for a calendar of events that weaves together faith, tradition, and conviviality. It is Christmas in the Village, a widespread festival that culminates in the renowned Living Nativity.

The Living Nativity in the Giudecca

The heart of the event is the Living Nativity, which for several editions has animated the ancient Giudecca district (Santa Maria area), once inhabited by the town's Jewish community. Along a route that winds through the most characteristic alleys, costumed performers bring scenes of the Nativity and ancient artisan crafts to life, accompanied by folk music and local folk groups. Admission is free, and the atmosphere, amidst the village stones illuminated by torches, is of rare intensity.

A celebration for the whole community

The Christmas program goes well beyond the nativity scene. Recurring initiatives include:

• The "Nativity Scenes in the Village" competition, with outdoor displays set up by citizens and associations in various neighborhoods;
• The traveling Christmas Novena, with songs and bagpipes echoing through the town's streets;
• Christmas concerts in historic churches, most notably the Basilica of the Madonna della Catena;
• The Santa Claus Village dedicated to children;
• Markets, food areas, and tastings of typical products and Etna wines in Piazza Lauria;
• The final Befana Parade on Epiphany day.

Promoted by the Municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia together with local associations, including the Santi Pietro e Paolo Museum, the event is now a highly anticipated appointment that attracts visitors from across the province of Catania and beyond, showcasing the historical heritage and popular traditions of this corner of Sicily.