Christmas in Desenzano del Garda with lights, music, and an ice rink
With the arrival of winter, Desenzano del Garda (province of Brescia) dons its most sparkling attire thanks to "Luci e Note di Natale", the Christmas event that enlivens the historic centre and the lakefront from late November until January 6th. Promoted by the Municipality together with local associations and traders, the festival combines Christmas lights, music, markets, and family attractions in one of the most picturesque towns on the lake.
The beating heart is Piazza Malvezzi, where the Christmas tree is located and where the lighting ceremony takes place with a travelling opening show. Piazza Matteotti is the stage for concerts, from gospel choirs to musical performances, including New Year's Eve events. In Piazza Cappelletti, children and enthusiasts will find the ice-skating rink, one of the season's most beloved attractions.
Among the unmissable stops is the Castle of Desenzano, which hosts Santa's Workshop with the reindeer station, the elves' workshop, and photo areas for children. On the lakefront, the floating nativity scene in the harbour offers one of the most evocative images of Christmas in the Garda region, a symbol of the deep bond between Desenzano and its lake.
Along the streets and the lakefront, Christmas markets offer artisan products and gift ideas, while the «G. B. Bosio» Civic Gallery hosts themed exhibitions. The artistic lighting, musical performances, and the crisp lake air create an intimate and cosy atmosphere, perfect for an evening stroll among the lights. "Luci e Note di Natale" is now a regular event that attracts residents and visitors from all over the Brescia and Garda regions.
In 2026, Desenzano del Garda is preparing to experience its widespread Christmas with "Luci e Note di Natale". The event will again feature the lighting of the Christmas lights and the tree in Piazza Malvezzi, the ice-skating rink in Piazza Cappelletti, Santa's Workshop at the Castle, and the floating nativity scene in the harbour. Piazza Matteotti will host gospel concerts and musical events until New Year's Eve. The detailed program, with dates and times for shows, markets, and attractions, will be published by the Municipality in the weeks preceding the event's start.
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be announced by the Municipality of Desenzano del Garda in the weeks preceding the event's start (late November).
Historic centre and lakefront of Desenzano del Garda (BS): Piazza Malvezzi, Piazza Matteotti, Piazza Cappelletti, Castle.
From late November to January 6th. Lighting ceremony and travelling opening show in late November.
The scattered events are free; the ice rink and some attractions have a fee.
Desenzano is served by the train station on the Milan–Venice line and by the A4 motorway exit. The historic centre is reachable on foot.
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Centro storico e lungolago di Desenzano
Piazza Malvezzi, 25015 Desenzano del Garda