Roccaraso Christmas Markets

High-altitude Christmas in Roccaraso

Nestled in the heart of the Abruzzo Apennines, over 1,200 meters above sea level on the Cinquemiglia Plateau, Roccaraso is one of the most renowned winter tourist destinations in Central and Southern Italy. During the holiday season, the town of Roccaraso, in the province of L'Aquila, puts on its most enchanting attire with the Christmas Markets, a well-established event that brings the town center to life from late November until Epiphany.

Chalets, crafts, and the flavors of Abruzzo

The hub of the festivities is Piazza Giuseppe Leone, where traditional wooden chalets are set up. Among the stalls, you will find artisanal goods, gift ideas, decorations, and above all, traditional Abruzzese gastronomy: cheeses, cured meats, holiday sweets, and mountain specialties. The fairy-tale atmosphere is complemented by street music, entertainment for all ages, and photography and painting exhibitions that line the village streets.

Santa's Village

A major highlight, especially for families, is Santa's Village. In Piazza Leone, above the former school building, Santa's House is set up, where children can deliver their letters and take photos with Santa Claus. It is an experience designed for the little ones, making the event an ideal destination for a family Christmas getaway.

Ice rink and historic trains

The winter offerings go beyond the markets. During the holidays, the ice rink reopens for skating, while the charm of travel reaches Roccaraso via the historic Transiberiana d'Italia trains, which depart from Sulmona and traverse mountains, forests, and plateaus on one of the most scenic routes in Abruzzo. To complete the day, the ski lifts and slopes of the famous ski resort are ready for action.

A traditional winter event in Abruzzo

The Roccaraso Christmas Markets are among the most popular holiday events in the Abruzzo mountains, perfectly blending festive shopping, culinary tradition, and the magic of snow. The event is part of a wider calendar of Christmas festivities that animate the Cinquemiglia Plateau, attracting visitors from neighboring regions every year.