Christmas Markets (Mercatini di Natale) 2024-2025 in Milan

During the Christmas season, the majority of Milan districts hold markets for entertainment and Christmas shopping. Christmas markets (Mercatini di Natale) have stronger traditions in Italy's Alpine regions, and you can feel it in the heart of Milano.

Mercatino di Natale in Piazza Duomo (December 1, 2024–January 6, 2025)

Mercatino di Natale in Piazza Duomo is the largest and most famous Christmas market in the city. Milan's central square gets filled with over 60 chalet huts selling traditional Christmas gifts and crafts such as decorations, baubles for Christmas trees, nativity cribs, Befana stockings, and a vast variety of food delicacies from various regions. The festive market that is open from 9 am to 9 pm is a perfect place for a lunch-time or afternoon stroll. Milan Christmas market in Piazza Duomo displays tradition, modern culture, and taste. Many local artisans exhibit and sell their works at the fair. The Christmas market highlight on Piazza Duomo is when the traditional Milanese Christmas tree is lit up during the opening ceremony.

Oh Bej! Oh Bej! (December 5–8, 2024)

Another popular Milan Christmas market is “Oh Bej! Oh Bej!” in Piazza Castello, a beautiful location near the Sforza Castle. Oh Bej! Oh Bej! is Milan's most beloved and historic Christmas fair, dating back to the 16th century, and it brings a unique festive charm to the city each December. The fair is named after the joyful exclamation "Oh Bej! Oh Bej!" which translates to "Oh Beautiful! Oh Beautiful!" in Milanese dialect, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season. With hundreds of stalls offering traditional Italian foods, handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and artisanal goods, visitors can explore Milanese holiday traditions in a lively and warm atmosphere. Locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and an array of regional specialties while soaking in the vibrant holiday ambiance against the beautiful historic backdrop of the castle.

Villaggio delle Meraviglie (November 16, 2024-January 6, 2025)

Villaggio delle Meraviglie, or "Village of Wonders," is a magical holiday attraction set in the heart of Milan's Indro Montanelli Gardens. Running throughout the Christmas season, this enchanting village is filled with seasonal cheer, offering an ice-skating rink, festive lights, and various holiday-themed shows for families and children. Santa's House is a favorite spot, where kids can meet Santa Claus himself, while adults can browse festive market stalls filled with gifts and artisanal treats. With holiday rides, workshops, and live performances, the Villaggio delle Meraviglie brings the joy of the season to life, making it a must-visit for anyone celebrating Christmas in Milan.

La Magia del Natale (November 8-December 22, 2024)

La Magia del Natale, or "The Magic of Christmas," is a charming Christmas village located at Milan’s CityLife district, surrounding the iconic CityLife Shopping District and its dazzling skyline. This festive wonderland is filled with holiday delights, including beautifully decorated wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and warm drinks like mulled wine and hot chocolate. Visitors can enjoy a classic ice-skating rink, a cozy Santa’s Grotto for kids, and live music performances that fill the air with holiday cheer. With its blend of modern architecture and traditional Christmas spirit, La Magia del Natale creates a unique and enchanting experience for holiday revelers in Milan.

Other markets to explore

If the weather is rainy, an indoor Creatività Artigiana Market in Piazza Dei Mercanti could be the right choice. This Christmas market emphasizes Italian arts and crafts. Workshops on production techniques are often held during the fair. Green Christmas, near Piazza Spotorno, is dedicated to the promotion of a greener lifestyle. It features organic goods, food, and decor. The Christmas Market at East Market Milano is held only on weekends, featuring vintage and collectibles like toys, clothes, and jewelry.