Ice rink, Christmas markets and nativity scenes at the Scaliger Castle
Natale a Villafranca is the program of initiatives that, from late November until January 6th, enlivens the historic center of Villafranca di Verona and its Scaliger Castle. For over a month, the village in the Veronese plain fills with lights, markets, exhibitions, and shows, offering families and visitors a widespread Christmas atmosphere that revolves around the city's symbolic monument.
The heart of the event is the large ice skating rink set up in Piazza Castello, a meeting point for all ages throughout the holiday season. Surrounding it are the Christmas Market in Via Pace and the Antiques Market in the historic center, the nativity scene exhibitions in the Castle's ramparts and choir loft, the extended opening hours for the fortress walkways, puppet shows, choral concerts, and events for children.
Promoted by the Municipality of Villafranca di Verona with the involvement of local associations, Natale a Villafranca blends history, art, music, and tradition: from the nativity scene exhibition to visits to the Castle, from concerts in churches to solidarity initiatives. A rich calendar that makes the Christmas period one of the most vibrant times of the year for the Veronese town.
The 2026-2027 edition of Natale a Villafranca will, according to established tradition, bring back the Christmas program of the Scaliger village: the large ice rink in Piazza Castello, the Christmas Market in Via Pace, the nativity scene exhibitions in the Scaliger Castle, the opening of the fortress walkways, and numerous events for families and children. The detailed program with dates and times will be published by the Municipality of Villafranca di Verona in the autumn.
The detailed program for the 2026-2027 edition will be announced in the autumn. The usual structure includes: ice rink in Piazza Castello, Christmas Market in Via Pace, nativity scene exhibitions at the Castle, opening of the walkways, puppet shows, choral concerts, and events for children.
Villafranca di Verona is about 15 km from Verona. By car: A4 (Sommacampagna exit) or A22 del Brennero. The Villafranca train station, on the VeronaโMantova line, is a few minutes from the center and the Scaliger Castle.
Many events are free to enter. The ice skating rink has a fee, with extended hours from December 21st to January 6th. Nativity scene exhibitions and Castle visits are according to the schedule.
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Castello Scaligero e centro storico
Piazza Castello e centro storico, 37069 Villafranca di Verona