Christmas Markets – Centriamo il Natale

Christmas markets in the heart of Catania

"Centriamo il Natale" is the Christmas program promoted by the Municipality of Catania which, every year between late November and late December, turns the historic center of the Etna capital into a vast village of lights and scents. The heart of the initiative is the Christmas markets, with their characteristic decorated and illuminated wooden stalls animating Piazza Università, Via Minoriti, and Via Montesano, in the pedestrian heart of the city.

What to find among the stalls

The stands are run by artisans, hobbyists, and local producers, offering a selection that blends creativity with Sicilian tradition:

• Local crafts, handmade goods, and gift ideas;
• Christmas decorations, nativity scenes, and Caltagirone ceramics;
• Costume jewelry and artistic creations;
• Traditional gastronomic specialties: torrone, cannoli, almond sweets, Bronte pistachios, preserves, and artisanal liqueurs.

Illuminations and city-wide events

The opening of the markets coincides with the lighting of the grand Christmas tree and the illuminations in Piazza Università, a moment that kicks off the city's festivities. The "Centriamo il Natale" program also includes events throughout the neighborhoods, concerts, shows, and family activities, with the illuminated historic center becoming a pedestrian-friendly itinerary. In recent editions, the Christmas atmosphere has been further enriched by the White Night in the historic center and the Christmas Town village set up at Le Ciminiere.

A staple for the city

Included in the festive calendar of the Metropolitan City of Catania, in Sicily, "Centriamo il Natale" is now a tradition that draws residents and visitors alike to the city's urban living room. Strolling among the wooden stalls, lights, and food stands is the simplest way to soak up the Etna Christmas spirit, amidst artisanal shopping and the flavors of Sicilian pastry.