The Village Becomes a Nativity Scene / Christmas Market on the Bridge

The Village Becomes a Nativity Scene in Ceccano

The Village Becomes a Nativity Scene is the Christmas event that every December transforms Borgo Berardi, one of the historic districts of Ceccano in the province of Frosinone, into the heart of the Ciociaria region. For an entire day, the narrow streets of the old village are dressed in the colors and scents of yesteryear, featuring artisan nativity scenes, lights, music, and traditional flavors. The initiative is organized by the Pro Loco of Ceccano in collaboration with the Network of Associations and the Borgata Committee, and has become a staple of the local Christmas calendar.

A widespread nativity scene along the village streets

From December 8th until the Epiphany, Borgo Berardi hosts a widespread nativity trail: numerous handmade nativity scenes are set up along the district's two main streets, which can be admired freely throughout the holiday period until January 6th. The nativity scenes blend naturally into the architecture of the village, which was built at the beginning of the 20th century to house local workers: an authentic, working-class setting that makes the atmosphere particularly evocative.

The festival Sunday: market, gastronomy, and traditions

The highlight is the Sunday dedicated to the event, when Borgo Berardi comes alive from morning until sunset, recreating the 'Borgata' of the past. The program combines the 'Artigiani nel Borgo' craft market and the 'Sapori nel Borgo' gastronomic events, offering a culinary journey among the artisan nativity scenes with traditional dishes at affordable prices. There are also plenty of activities for families and children:

• Tombola (Bingo) in the afternoon, along the village streets
• Santa Claus with his elves and face painting for children
• Roaming music, accordions, and street performers
• Food stalls featuring the flavors of Ciociaria Christmas

The Christmas Market on the Bridge

In conjunction with the festival in the village, the nearby Ponte Berardi hosts the Christmas Market on the Bridge, dedicated to the display and sale of typical local products and handmade creations. The two events, just a few steps from each other, form a single, large festive route that unites the bridge and the historic village.

Part of the 'Sapori & Racconti di Natale' program

The Village Becomes a Nativity Scene is one of the flagship initiatives of 'Sapori & Racconti di Natale', the rich program with which the Municipality of Ceccano lights up Christmas, enlivening the center and various districts for weeks with shows, music, theater, and traditions. For those visiting Ciociaria during the holidays, it is an authentic opportunity to discover a Lazio village in its warmest and most communal guise, far from the major tourist circuits.