Grado at Christmas time is very popular with those who want to experience the festivities in a unique atmosphere! The 'Island of the Sun' itself is already wonderful: it has a large pedestrian area and an old town centre with lots of shops, bars and a characteristic Y harbour. During the Christmas period, however, the small fishing village is transformed into the 'Island of Christmas', thanks to the lights, atmosphere and numerous events that the municipality organises every year.
The most eagerly awaited initiative is certainly the Exhibition of Cribs, which has become a tradition shared with Aquileia and Terzo di Aquileia. More than 100 interpretations of the Nativity, from December to January, can be seen among the calli and campielli of the island's historic centre and along the streets of Fossalon and Boscat. Not to be missed, then, is the floating nativity scene with its casone, set up in the Mandracchio harbour. On several days, the Municipality of Grado organises guided tours of the cribs and the town, and free pony rides at the Parco delle Rose. There are also many events, music and entertainment with various shows organised by the municipal administration, the Grado Tourism Consortium and the many local associations, all with a Christmas theme.
Lastly, there is a very characteristic event at the Mandracchio harbour: every year, starting at 5 p.m. on 5 January, the terrifying Varvuole (i.e. sea witches) arrive at the harbour to ward off negativity and contribute, with their strength and energy, to getting the New Year off to a positive start.
Discover HERE all the companies open in Grado during this period (accommodation, bars, restaurants, shops and services).
PROGRAMME 2023:
- From 1 December to 7 January, free parking throughout the town.
- From 08 December 2023 to 14 January 2024, exhibition of cribs in Grado, Aquileia and Terzo di Aquileia.
- From 08 December to 06 January, at the Palatucci Gardens, CHRISTMAS LUNA PARK.
- From 01 December to 10 December at the Auditorium S. Rocco, 'Non solo Natale', exhibition-market of handmade gift ideas. Opening hours 09.30-12.30/15.00-19.00
- From Saturday 02 December, switching on of the illuminations.
- From 13 December to 19 December at the Auditorium S. Rocco, "Mercatino del bambino". Opening hours 09.30-12.30/15.00-17.30
- FRIDAY 08 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 10.00 A.M. Inflatables for children in Campo Patriarca Elia.
- FROM 3.00 P.M. Inauguration of the Nativity scene exhibition.
- FROM 4 P.M. TO 7 P.M. - CAMPO PATRIARCA ELIA, THE GRADO ENTREPRENEURS, IN COOPERATION WITH THE MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATION, OFFER HOT TEA, CHESTNUTS AND RIBOLLA TO THE TOWNSPEOPLE, ON THE OCCASION OF THE LIGHTING OF THE TREE.
- FROM 5.00 P.M.Lighting of the Christmas tree in Campo Patriarca Elia.
- FROM 3 P.M. TO 7 P.M. - LAGUNA PALACE HOTEL, CHRISTMAS SOUK. In the hotel lobby and at the Brioni Hall, many local businesses will have the opportunity to present themselves by setting up their own stands. An opportunity to look for design objects, clothing, jewellery, ideas for an original gift for Christmas. The event will be accompanied by various food and wine moments:
- FROM 3.00 PM TO 7.00 PM The Mad Hatter's corner, with candyfloss and popcorn for all children; chestnuts and mulled wine.
- FROM 5.30 P.M DJ set and NONINO aperitif; Toscano cigar tasting.
- 8.30 P.M. SKY RESTAURANT Umbrian cuisine, in collaboration with the Antica Osteria di Montone (PG).
- SATURDAY 09 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 10.00 A.M. Inflatables for children in Campo Patriarca Elia.
- FROM 11 A.M. TO 8 P.M. - LAGUNA PALACE HOTEL, CHRISTMAS SOUK. In the hotel lobby and at the Brioni Hall, many local businesses will have the opportunity to present themselves by setting up their own stands. An opportunity to look for design objects, clothing, jewellery, ideas for an original gift for Christmas.The event will be accompanied by several food and wine moments:
- FROM 11.00 A.M. TO 7.00 P.M. the Mad Hatter's Corner, with candyfloss and popcorn for all children.
- FROM 12.00 TO 3.00 PM SKY RESTAURANT Laguna Christmas Brunch.
- FROM 3.00 P.M. chestnuts and mulled wine.
- FROM 4.00 P.M. TO 6.00 P.M. RISTORANTE LA BRICOLA cooking class for children with Chef Enrico.
- FROM 5.30 P.M. DJ set and NONINO aperitif.
- 8.00 P.M. SKY RESTAURANT four-hands dinner: Trattoria De Toni (Grado) and Laguna Sky Restaurant.
- 10.00 P.M. after dinner, tasting of Gintonego and Cigar Toscano.
- 09.00 P.M. "Christmas Voices" concert in the Biagio Marin Auditorium, by SogitE20.
- SUNDAY 10 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 10.00 A.M. Inflatables for children in Campo Patriarca Elia.
- FROM 11 A.M. TO 7 P.M. - LAGUNA PALACE HOTEL, CHRISTMAS SOUK. In the hotel lobby and at the Brioni Hall, many local businesses will have the opportunity to present themselves by setting up their own stands. An opportunity to look for design objects, clothing, jewellery, ideas for an original gift for Christmas. The event will be accompanied by various food and wine moments:
- FROM 11.00 AM TO 7.00 PM The Mad Hatter's Corner, with candyfloss and popcorn for all children.
- FROM 10.00 AM TO 12.00 noon Narrative herbalist trails: plants, fairytales and other tales...
- FROM 12.00 TO 03.00 P.M. SKY RESTAURANT Bio Christmas Brunch.
- FROM 3.00 P.M. Chestnuts and mulled wine.
- FROM 5.30 P.M. DJ set and NONINO aperitif.
- 8.30 P.M. SKY RESTAURANT four-hands dinner: "Laguna cuisine meets Franciacorta" organised by Trattoria al Gallo di Rovato (BS) and Laguna Sky Restaurant.
- 10.00 P.M. after dinner with Amaro NONINO; tasting of Toscano cigars.
- 4.00 P.M. COMETA CONCERT at the Basilica of St. Euphemia; ORCHESTRA OF THE ACCADEMIA MUSICALE NAONIS; Luisa Sello and Mihi Kim flutes; Cristina Nadal cello; Mabel Troian harpsichord
- MONDAY, 11 DECEMBER 2023
- 5.00 P.M. presentation at the Biblioteca Civica Falco Marin, of the book "Wunderbar" by Giovanni Marchesan Stiata and the "teatro popolare gradese" by Sonia Zuberti, organised by Grado Teatro. Reservations are recommended at +39 0431 82630.
- WEDNESDAY 13 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 3.00 P.M TO 5.00 P.M. Free pony rides at Parco delle Rose. Organised by Circolo Ippico Equiart Asd, for children aged 4 to 8 years.
- FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER
- 4.00 P.M. READINGS BORN TO READ... WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS HOURS in the Falco Marin Public Library.
- AT 4.30 P.M. LET'S TEAM UP! CHRISTMAS MONOPOLIES in the Falco Marin Civic Library. Game for children aged 6 to 10. Reservations recommended at tel. 0431.82630, maximum 15 children.
- AT 5.30 P.M. in the Town Hall Council Chamber, PRESENTATION OF THE VOLUME "LA PARLATA SOLITARIA" BY AUGUSTO CESARE MAROCCO AND PRESENTATION OF THE WEB PORTAL ON THE VENETOFONIAN DIALECTS OF FRIULI VENEZIA GIULIA. Organised by the Friulian Philological Society.
- SATURDAY 16 DECEMBER 2023
- 10.00 A.M. LET'S PLAY WITH BURSTS, organised by the Associazione La Signora delle Fiabe, in the Falco Marin Public Library. For children aged 6 to 10. Booking advised by tel. 0431.82630, maximum 15 children.
- 12.00 noon in Via Orseolo, INAUGURATION CEREMONY OF THE FISHING AND LAGOON CULTURE MUSEUM.
- FROM 3.30 P.M. GUIDED TOUR OF THE NATIVITY SCENES IN THE TOWN CENTRE, in Italian and English. Meeting point in Piazza Biagio Marin. Reservation is appreciated at nr. +39 331 5601042.
- 4 P.M. in Piazza Biagio Marin CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL, show-cooking and tastings.
- SUNDAY 17 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 15.00 TO 16.00 GOSPEL CONCERT by 'THE MESSENGERS MASS CHOIR' at the Basilica Santa Eufemia.
- FROM 3.30 P.M. GUIDED VISIT TO THE NATIVITY SCENES IN THE HISTORIC CENTRE, in Italian and German. Meeting point in Piazza Biagio Marin. Reservation is appreciated at nr. +39 331 5601042.
- FROM 5.00 P.M. starting from Piazza Biagio Marin, TOURING SHOW FOR CHILDREN.
- TUESDAY 19 DECEMBER 2023
- 4.00 P.M. in Piazza Biagio Marin, COMIC SHOW "DOMACE UNDER THE TREE" with Maxino, Flavio Furian and Elisa Bombacigno. Free admission.
- WEDNESDAY 20 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 3.00 P.M. children's show "Maga Gaia vs. Elfonso: che caos questo Natale" by Gaia Germani, at Piazza Biagio Marin.
- FRIDAY 22 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 11 A.M. TO 8 P.M. Food and wine event in Piazza Biagio Marin, with tasting of local wines and delicatessen products.
- FROM 3.30 P.M. GUIDED VISIT TO THE NATIVITY SCENES IN THE OLD TOWN CENTRE, in Italian and English. Meeting point in Piazza Biagio Marin. Reservation is appreciated at nr. +39 331 5601042.
- SATURDAY 23 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 11 A.M. TO 8 P.M. Food and wine event, with tasting of local wines and delicatessen products, in Piazza Biagio Marin.
- 8.45 P.M. CONCERT OF THE CIVIC BAND "City of Grado", at the Biagio Marin Auditorium.
- SUNDAY 24 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 10.30 A.M. GUIDED TOUR OF THE NATIVITY SCENES IN THE OLD TOWN CENTRE, in Italian and German. Meeting point in Piazza Biagio Marin. Reservation is appreciated at nr. +39 331 5601042.
- FROM 11.00 A.M. TO 2.00 P.M. Food and wine event in Piazza Biagio Marin, with tasting of local wines and delicatessen products.
- FROM 5.00 P.M. Santa Claus arrives on board the batela in Porto Mandacchio, by SogitE20.
- TUESDAY, 26 DECEMBER 2023
- PANETTONE MARCH
- 9.00 A.M registration
- 10.00 A.M. start
- 1.00 P.M. awards ceremony
- FROM 3.00 P.M. TO 3.45 P.M. - PIAZZA BIAGIO MARIN (marquee), SHOW "The enchanting DANCING BOLLS" BY MANOLA FILIPUTTI (SOAP BOLLS) AND FULVIA PELLEGRINI (VIOLIN). The show, which lasts about 45 minutes, combines the visual element and the musical element, passing through the narration of a short story created expressly for this purpose. Music, words and numbers with bubbles proceed in symbiosis, in a dynamic encounter capturing children and transporting them to enchanted places. Moments of amazement and passive observation alternate with more dynamic moments in which the bubbles 'reach' the little spectators in controlled ways that are always unexpected. Numbers are performed with circles, with hands, smoke and fire bubbles, games on the light table, in a series of continuous surprises, passing from very small bubbles to enormous ones while the music leads into dreamlike and lively atmospheres, and the word offers the thread to follow.
- FROM 4.00 P.M. TO 5.30 P.M.. St Stephen's Concert by the City of Grado Chorale, at the Basilica of St Euphemia.
- FROM 5.40 P.M. TO 6.40 P.M. - CAMPO PATRIARCA ELIA, PIANO SKY. The PIANO SKY (Christmas version) is a show featuring a grand piano suspended in the air, 4 m above the ground, played live by a pianist, transporting the audience into a surreal and magical atmosphere with sweet and engaging melodies. Music and more, to go beyond oneself, the metaphor of flight as the perfect image of those who want to think big and go beyond their limits. At the heart of this extraordinary show is a talented pianist performing live music while her piano seems to hover up to four metres high, creating an optical impression as the balloons themselves seem to lift her into the sky. Cardinali Group founder Daniele Bonato describes the experience as follows: "Piano Sky is a unique show, capable of transporting any audience into an unprecedented sensory journey. Our goal is always and only one: to excite." There is no doubt that this extraordinary all-Italian performance will continue to enchant and make people dream for a long time to come, offering an unforgettable experience to spectators, also in Grado. The Piano Sky is a work of art that has attracted international attention since 2011, when it was created by Cardinali Group, a company based in Selve di Teolo (PD). This iconic show has already been a huge success, performing for four months at the Dubai Expo 2021 and during the prestigious closing ceremony held at Al Wasl Plaza. The huge success led to a request to repeat the experience, this time in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. In case of bad weather the show will be postponed.
- PANETTONE MARCH
- WEDNESDAY 27 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 3.00 P.M. TO 5.00 P.M. free pony rides, at the Rose Park. Organised by Circolo Ippico Equiart Asd, for children aged 4 to 8.
- 4.30 P.M., from Piazza Biagio Marin, STREET ARTISTS. Touring shows.
- 7.00 P.M. in Piazza Biagio Marin PRE-CONCERT WITH LISTENING MUSIC.
- 9.00 P.M. CONCERT BY THE "ALTA TENSIONE" GROUP in Piazza Biagio Marin.
- THURSDAY 28 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 10.00 AM. - 12.00 PM. Free pony rides, at the Parco delle Rose. Organised by Circolo Ippico Equiart Asd, for children aged 4 to 8.
- 3.00 P.M. Children's entertainment show with Mago Mattuís, at Piazza Biagio Marin.
- 7 P.M to midnight, 90s DJ set in the Biagio Marin Square.
- FRIDAY 29 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 15.00 TO 16.00 GOSPEL CONCERT by 'THE MESSENGERS MASS CHOIR' at the Basilica Santa Eufemia.
- FROM 3.30 P.M. GUIDED TOURS OF THE NATIVITY SCENES IN THE OLD TOWN CENTRE, in Italian and German. Meeting point in Piazza Biagio Marin. Reservation is appreciated at nr. +39 331 5601042.
- 4.30 P.M., from Piazza Biagio Marin, STREET ARTISTS. Touring shows.
- 7.30 P.M. in Piazza Biagio Marin PRE-CONCERT WITH LISTENING MUSIC.
- 9.00 P.M. CONCERT OF THE GROUP "CINDY AND THE ROCK HISTORY" in Piazza Biagio Marin.
- SATURDAY 30 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 5.00 P.M. TO 5.40 P.M. - PORTO MANDRACCHIO, FLOATING SHOW "GRAN DAMA". The 'GRAN DAMA' show (Christmas version) will be held in the harbour, with a live singer on top of a giant skirt (diameter 6 metres). During the show, the skirt will be illuminated with colour-changing lights and Christmas-themed images will be projected. Imagine the wonder of a song suspended in the air, a scene with a majestic backdrop and a dreamlike atmosphere. At the centre of the stage stands a huge skirt with an imposing diameter of 6 metres that gradually begins to inflate, turning into a large luminous balloon. The magic of the entire scene is amplified by the play of shadows, lights and colours that intertwine in an unparalleled visual harmony. This performance, known as 'La Gran Dama', is an enchanting experience. The skirt of the talented singer begins to slowly expand, transforming into an imposing light balloon with a diameter of 6 metres. Now imagine this extraordinary performance taking place in an equally evocative location, such as the waters of Grado harbour. Cardinali Group, a company that has honed its specialisation in animation and entertainment over the years, is responsible for creating unique choreographies and performances. Their performances are able to give indelible emotions to all spectators, thanks to the meticulous attention paid to every detail of the show and the professionalism of their staff. In case of bad weather the show will be postponed.
- SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER 2023
- FROM 10.00 P.M. New Year's Eve concert at the XXVI Maggio Square.
- FROM 00.30 A.M. fireworks display in Porto Mandracchio
- MONDAY 01 JANUARY 2024
- 5.00 P.M. New Year's Eve concert at the Biagio Marin Auditorium. Free admission, maximum capacity 248 seats.
- WEDNESDAY 03 JANUARY 2024
- Gospel concert by "THE MESSENGERS MASS CHOIR". FROM 15.00 TO 16.00 GOSPEL CONCERT by 'THE MESSENGERS MASS CHOIR' at the Basilica Santa Eufemia.
- FRIDAY 05 JANUARY 2024
- FROM 5.15 P.M. VARVUOLE (Sea witches) will arrive at Mandracchio harbour.
- 5.15 p.m. arrival of the Varvuole at Mandracchio harbour. Then:
- theatrical performance in Campiello Porta Grande.
- choral performance in Campo dei Patriarchi.
- performance in Campo Patriarca Elia.
- Post-show party in Piazza Biagio Marin.
- 8.30 P.M. at Piazza Biagio Marin, DJ SET
- FROM 5.15 P.M. VARVUOLE (Sea witches) will arrive at Mandracchio harbour.
- SATURDAY, 06 JANUARY 2024
- FROM 3.30 P.M., departing from Piazza Biagio Marin, TOURING SHOW FOR CHILDREN.
- 9.00 PM CONCERT OF THE "PINK ARMADA" GROUP in Piazza Biagio Marin.
- SUNDAY 07 JANUARY 2024
- FROM 10.30 A.M. GUIDED VISIT TO THE NATIVITY SCENES IN THE OLD TOWN, in Italian and English. Meeting point in Piazza Biagio Marin. Reservation is appreciated at nr. +39 331 5601042.
- FROM 3.00 P.M. TO 3.45 P.M. - PIAZZA BIAGIO MARIN (marquee), SHOW WITH THE MAGA DELLE BOLLE based on the magic of soap bubbles: a series of acts ranging from very small bubbles, to huge ones, with smoke, fire, control acts and much more. With various moments in which there will be a myriad of bubbles for everyone.
- FROM 3.45 P.M. TO 4.45 P.M. - "LES MONGOLFIERS" (Christmas version), a touring show on stilts, with great visual impact, featuring completely hand-crafted hot-air balloon costumes. The show is accompanied by a stage cart, an integral part of the parade itself, for sound diffusion. In the event of bad weather, the show will be postponed. Departure from Piazza Biagio Marin.
All events are, unless otherwise indicated, free admission subject to availability. The programme may be subject to change. For last-minute updates you can follow the social networks of the Municipality of Grado.