EricèNatale - The Village of Nativity Scenes

Christmas in the medieval village of Erice

EricèNatale - The Village of Nativity Scenes is the grand Christmas event that animates the medieval village of Erice—a jewel perched atop Mount San Giuliano in the province of Trapani, Western Sicily—every year from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception to Epiphany. For over a month, the cobblestone streets, churches, courtyards, and ancient workshops of the historic center turn into an evocative open-air nativity scene, bridging Sicilian tradition with the atmosphere of Northern Europe.

The village of nativity scenes

The heart of the event lies in its nativity scenes: three distinct routes guide residents and visitors through medieval alleys, churches, and natural caves housing over thirty artisanal nativity scenes, spanning from traditional Neapolitan and Sicilian works to contemporary reinterpretations. Among the most admired pieces are the monumental mechanical nativity scene, featuring illuminated sets and numerous moving figures, and thematic displays that celebrate the local identity.

Markets, music, and shows

The program weaves together craft markets featuring ceramics, woodwork, textiles, and handmade nativity scenes, accompanied by typical gastronomic products from Erice and Trapani. The festivities include DJ sets and concerts in Piazza della Loggia, performances at the Teatro Gebel Hamed and the Cappella di Casa Santa Sales, bagpiper exhibitions, children's readings, and creative workshops at Santa's House, set up in the heart of the village.

A bridge between Sicily and Europe

One of the unique features of EricèNatale is its cultural dialogue: alongside Mediterranean traditional nativity scenes, the village has hosted exhibitions dedicated to Northern European Christmas, featuring collections of nutcrackers and music boxes from historic German manufacturers, displayed between the Town Hall and the A. Cordici Museum. This journey makes Erice a Christmas destination that speaks to an international audience.

The hamlets and New Year's Eve

The festival also involves the hamlets of the Municipality of Erice, with initiatives such as the living nativity scene and the illuminated balcony competitions. The period concludes with New Year's Eve celebrations, when Piazza della Loggia turns into a large open-air dance floor with music, DJ sets, spectacular lighting, and midnight fireworks. Organized by the Municipality of Erice, the event is an unmissable appointment for Christmas in Sicily.