From November 2024 to January 2025, the Tuscan city Pistoia transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland, filled with lights, decorations, and events to delight both locals and visitors. For the first time, the historic Piazza Duomo will host an immersive videomapping experience, bringing to life the city’s iconic landmarks with dazzling projections and colorful displays.
The heart of the festivities is the Santa’s House, located in the Affrescate Rooms of the Palazzo Comunale. Here, children can embark on a multimedia journey through snowy forests and Arctic landscapes, meet Santa Claus and his busy elves, send their letters at the Christmas post office, and enjoy enchanting performances. After last year’s success, with over 7,000 visitors, this attraction is ready to charm even more families this season.
“From November 23 to January 6, Pistoia will become the Christmas capital,” said Gabriele Sgueglia, the city’s Councillor for Productive Activities. “With attractions like Santa’s House, a vibrant cultural program, and a fairytale atmosphere, we aim to create memorable moments for families and tourists alike.”
The festive spirit spreads across the city:
• Piazza dello Spirito Santo will host a Christmas Market featuring artisanal gifts, handmade decorations, and local culinary delights. This year, the market will be enhanced by a reimagined “Enchanted Forest,” designed by Giorgio Tesi Group.
• Piazza San Francesco will boast an ice-skating rink, adding to the family-friendly fun.
• Throughout the city, streets and monuments will be adorned with sparkling lights and unique decorations crafted by local schoolchildren.
The centerpiece of this year’s celebration is the immersive videomapping in Piazza Duomo. Iconic buildings such as the Cathedral, Palazzo Comunale, Campanile, and Tribunale will come alive with spectacular light shows, creating a visual feast for visitors.
Adding to the festive cheer, Pistoia’s cultural scene will shine with a special winter edition of the Pistoia Blues Festival, one of Europe’s longest-running music festivals. A highlight will be a tribute concert to Nicola “Nick” Becattini, a beloved Pistoian blues musician.
Over 5,000 people gathered in Pistoia’s picturesque Piazza del Duomo to celebrate the start of the Christmas festivities. The highlight of the event was the lighting of the Christmas tree, a magnificent fir sourced from the Pistoian Apennines, adorned with thousands of lights that will shine bright until January 6.
Mayor Alessandro Tomasi, joined by his council, officially kicked off the festivities, declaring Pistoia the “City of Christmas,” with attractions designed for all ages.
“This year’s edition combines fun and culture, proving that the two can beautifully coexist,” said Benedetta Menichelli, Councillor for Culture. Highlights include theater performances, book readings, and an open day at Palazzo Comunale on December 15, where normally closed rooms will be accessible to the public.
Traditional favorites, such as nativity displays and the city’s iconic Befana Festival, remain integral to the program, ensuring a perfect blend of innovation and heritage.
Pistoia’s “City of Christmas” is organized by the Municipality with support from Conad and Toscana Energia. “This initiative strengthens the bond between our city and its community,” said Fabio Giorgetti, President of Toscana Energia, emphasizing the importance of cultural and festive events in fostering unity and joy.
Stay updated on the program via the event’s social media channels:
This holiday season, Pistoia invites everyone to experience its magical blend of light, culture, and celebration. Whether strolling through the markets, skating in the piazza, or marveling at the videomapping spectacle, visitors are sure to create unforgettable memories in the City of Christmas.
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