What To Do in Florence in December
Florence transforms into a winter wonderland in December with festive shop windows, charming markets, glittering Christmas lights and all the excitement of New Year's celebrations.
Florence transforms into a winter wonderland in December with festive shop windows, charming markets, glittering Christmas lights and all the excitement of New Year's celebrations.
December is a magical time to visit Florence. Wander through the city's historic streets, where Renaissance architecture becomes a canvas for stunning light displays during Florence Lights Up. Lace up your skates at the Florence on Ice Village in Cascine Park or browse beautiful holiday gifts for a good cause at the Natalperfile market in Palazzo Corsini. As the year draws to a close, ring in the New Year with concerts and celebrations in piazzas across the city.
December (Dates to be confirmed)
The Florence on Ice Village comes to Cascine Park for the holiday period, creating a magical winter wonderland for all ages. Skate on Italy's largest ice rink, twinkling with Christmas lights and decorations, and take in panoramic views from the 55-meter-high Ferris wheel. The holiday atmosphere continues with market stalls offering local street food, sweet treats and warming cups of mulled wine or hot chocolate.
7 December 2025 - 7 January 2026
As the evenings grow darker, Florence brightens the season with Florence Lights Up. Artistic light projections transform the city's iconic monuments, bridges and piazzas into open-air works of art. Expect enchanting displays at the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio and throughout the city, making December nights in Florence truly unforgettable.
Website: https://enjoyrespectfirenze.it/it/florence-lights-up/
12 - 14 December 2025
Held in the beautiful setting of Palazzo Corsini, the Natalperfile Christmas Market is dedicated to raising funds for palliative care services for patients and families. Browse high-quality gifts, vintage treasures and holiday decorations, and be sure to pick up a delicious panettone—a favorite Italian holiday treat—as part of the fundraising campaign.
31 December 2025
Florence's New Year's Eve celebrations light up the city with concerts, performances and festivities in piazzas throughout the historic center. Gospel choirs perform in Piazza San Giovanni, jazz fills Piazza Santissima Annunziata and family-friendly entertainment takes place in Piazza della Signoria. The grand finale can be found in Piazza Santa Croce with orchestral music and dancing late into the night. Many hotels, restaurants and venues host special New Year's Eve dinners and parties, so be sure to book early. The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino hosts a gala dinner and concert, and venues like the Four Seasons Hotel and Hard Rock Cafe also offer festive celebrations to welcome the new year in style.
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