Venue: Varie zone di Grado
Once again, for Christmas 2026, Grado is transformed into a vast, widespread exhibition showcasing artistic nativity scenes created by private individuals, schools, associations and local craftspeople. There will be over 150 nativity scenes on the island, most of which will be housed at the Palazzo Regionale dei Congressi, but many will also be on display in the streets of the historic centre, in the narrow alleys, in shop windows, along Porto Mandracchio, and in the hamlets of Fossalon and Boscat.
Particularly eagerly anticipated in 2026 is the return to Grado of the ‘Presepe Lagunare’. After being exhibited in St Peter’s Square in the Vatican in 2024 and in Gorizia in 2025, as a tribute to the European Capital of Culture, from 5 December the nativity scene will once again be on display in Campo Patriarca Elia.
A symbolic return to its home town for a nativity scene which, through its figures, settings and details, recounts the life and traditions of the Grado lagoon.
Nativity Scene Exhibition at the Palazzo dei Congressi
Saturday 5 December 2026 – opening
From 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm
From 6 to 23 December 2026
From 10.00 to 13.00 and from 14.00 to 18.00
From 24 December 2026 to 6 January 2027
From 10.00 to 18.00, open all day
From 7 to 17 January 2027
From 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and from 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm
Admission to the exhibition is free, with limited capacity. A reception service is available at the Palazzo dei Congressi.
Outdoor nativity scenes
The outdoor nativity scenes are always open to visitors, with free admission.
Information for coaches
Passengers may be dropped off and picked up in front of the Palazzo dei Congressi. The coach park is located on Viale Italia, at the car park in the Sacca area.
Discover the full programme for Nadal de l’Isola and all the events that will bring Grado to life over the festive season. Also check out the list of businesses open during the Christmas holidays and plan your visit to enjoy the experiences, shopping and flavours of the ‘Island of the Sun’.