Christmas in Zagarolo – The Christmas of Dreams

The Christmas of Dreams in the village of Zagarolo

Every year, between early December and January 6th, the Municipality of Zagarolo—a historic village in the Monti Prenestini, within the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, in the Lazio region—organizes "The Christmas of Dreams," a rich calendar of festive events that brings the historic center and its hamlets to life. The official opening is traditionally held on the first weekend of December in Piazza Indipendenza, with the lighting of the Christmas displays and a fireworks show that kicks off a month of festivities: markets, concerts, exhibitions, workshops, and entertainment for the little ones.

The Christmas Market at Palazzo Rospigliosi

The heart of the event is the Christmas market set up in the frescoed halls of Palazzo Rospigliosi, the ancient castle of the Colonna princes that overlooks the village, later passed to the Rospigliosi family. It provides a unique setting in the landscape of Lazio's markets: stalls featuring local crafts, decorations, handmade goods, and gift ideas are displayed among 16th-century Mannerist frescoes, in a palace that once hosted figures such as Caravaggio. The market is typically held during the Immaculate Conception long weekend (December 6-8), with free admission.

Concerts, exhibitions, and shows

The musical program ranges from piano recitals in the palace halls to gospel concerts and rock evenings, featuring local choirs and youth ensembles. Each edition also offers a major thematic exhibition at the Zagarolo Toy Museum, one of the most original museums in Lazio: over the years, exhibitions have paid tribute to the Disney universe and, in the 2025 edition, to the cinema of Tim Burton with the "Dark Side" exhibition. There is no shortage of food and wine events such as "Vini in Dimora," featuring wine tastings in the palace's historic rooms.

Activities for children and families

Christmas in Zagarolo is designed primarily for families: Santa's house, the Christmas train traveling through the center, elves making balloon sculptures, pop-up playrooms, and creative workshops accompany children throughout the holidays. The calendar also involves the hamlet of Valle Martella, with the lighting of the tree and dedicated parties, and concludes on January 6th with the arrival of the Befana, featuring entertainment, magic shows, and the traditional stocking for the little ones.

A historic village at the gates of Rome

Zagarolo, located about 35 kilometers from Rome between the Castelli Romani and the Monti Prenestini, is the ideal destination for a Christmas day trip: the charm of the market is complemented by the narrow streets of the historic center, Baroque churches, and noble palaces. The event is promoted by the Municipal Administration together with the Palazzo Rospigliosi Institution, the Pro Loco, and local merchants and associations, confirming a deeply rooted tradition that every December attracts visitors from across the province of Rome and the entire Lazio region.