Jesolo Sand Nativity
The world's most famous sand nativity scene in Piazza Brescia
About Sand Nativity Jesolo
A Nativity Scene Sculpted in Sand
For over twenty years, the Jesolo Sand Nativity has been one of the most visited Christmas events on the Venetian coast. In the large pavilion set up in Piazza Brescia, in the heart of Jesolo Lido, in the province of Venice, sculptors from around the world hand-model enormous blocks of sand to bring a monumental Nativity scene and other scenes related to the year's theme to life.
Art, Faith, and Solidarity
Each edition revolves around a strong spiritual and social theme: the exhibition, also loved by Pope Francis, combines the mastery of sand sculpture with reflection on peace, interfaith dialogue, and care for creation. The proceeds from donations are entirely allocated to humanitarian projects in Italy and worldwide, totaling over one million euros collected over the years.
An Inclusive Exhibition
In recent years, the exhibition has also been made accessible to visually impaired visitors, thanks to plaster models alongside the large sculptures and audio guides activated via QR Code. Admission is free, and the exhibition remains open for over two months, spanning Advent, Christmas, and the beginning of the year.
Sand Nativity Jesolo — edition 2026
The 23rd edition of the Jesolo Sand Nativity took place from November 29, 2025, to February 8, 2026, in the Piazza Brescia pavilion, with the theme 'Canticle of the Creatures — Peace with the Earth, Peace on Earth', inspired by the famous canticle of Saint Francis of Assisi on the eighth centenary of its composition.
Under the artistic direction of Canadian David Ducharme, international sculptors created the large sand works between November 6th and 19th. The exhibition was also designed for visually impaired visitors, with tactile models and audio guides via QR Code. Inauguration on December 1st at 6:00 PM.
Programme Sand Nativity Jesolo 2026
Creation of the Sculptures
- November 6-19, 2025 — International sculptors hand-model the large sand works
Inauguration
- Monday, December 1, 2025, 6:00 PM — Official opening ceremony
Public Opening
- From November 29, 2025, to February 8, 2026, in Piazza Brescia
- Mon-Fri: 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM - 7:30 PM — Sat, Sun, and public holidays: 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM continuous
- December 21 - January 6: continuous hours 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM daily
- Accessible route for the visually impaired with tactile models and audio guides via QR Code
- Theme: Canticle of the Creatures — Peace with the Earth, Peace on Earth
Highlights Sand Nativity Jesolo 2026
Prices Sand Nativity Jesolo 2026
Practical information — Sand Nativity Jesolo
How to Get There
Jesolo Lido is reachable by car from the A4 motorway (Noventa di Piave exit) and by bus from Venice Mestre and Marco Polo Airport. The pavilion is located in Piazza Brescia, in the central area of the Lido.
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM - 7:30 PM; Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays continuous hours 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM. From December 21st to January 6th, continuous hours every day.
Admission
Free admission, no reservation required. Guided tours available upon request.
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Where does it take place — Sand Nativity Jesolo
Padiglione di Piazza Brescia
Piazza Brescia, 30016 Jesolo