Ice rink, markets, and nativity scenes at the Scaligero Castle
Christmas in Villafranca is the program of initiatives that, from late November until January 6th, enlivens the historic center of Villafranca di Verona and its Scaligero Castle. For over a month, the village in the Veronese plain fills with lights, markets, exhibitions, and shows, offering families and visitors a widespread Christmas atmosphere centered around the city's symbolic monument.
The heart of the event is the large ice skating rink set up in Piazza Castello, a meeting point for all ages throughout the holiday season. Surrounding it are the Christmas Market in Via Pace and the Antiques Market in the historic center, the nativity scene exhibitions in the Ramparts and the Choir Loft of the Castle, the extended opening hours for the fortress walkways, puppet theater, choral concerts, and events dedicated to children.
Promoted by the Municipality of Villafranca di Verona with the involvement of local associations, Christmas in Villafranca blends history, art, music, and tradition: from the nativity scene exhibition to visits to the Castle, from concerts in churches to solidarity initiatives. A rich calendar that makes the Christmas period one of the most vibrant times of the year for the Veronese town.
The 2026-2027 edition of Christmas in Villafranca will once again feature, following established tradition, the Christmas program of the Scaliger village: the large ice rink in Piazza Castello, the Christmas Market in Via Pace, nativity scene exhibitions in the Scaligero Castle, the opening of the fortress walkways, and numerous events for families and children. The detailed program with dates and times will be published by the Municipality of Villafranca di Verona in the autumn.
The detailed program for the 2026-2027 edition will be announced in the autumn. The usual structure includes: ice rink in Piazza Castello, Christmas Market in Via Pace, nativity scene exhibitions at the Castle, opening of the walkways, puppet theater, choral concerts, and events for children.
Villafranca di Verona is about 15 km from Verona. By car: A4 (Sommacampagna exit) or A22 Brenner. The Villafranca train station, on the VeronaโMantua line, is a few minutes from the center and the Scaligero Castle.
Many events are free admission. The ice rink has a fee, with extended hours during the period of December 21stโJanuary 6th. Nativity scene exhibitions and Castle visits according to the schedule.
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Castello Scaligero e centro storico
Piazza Castello e centro storico, 37069 Villafranca di Verona