I’ve put together a guide to the best Christmas events in Venice, with key dates and times to help you plan your visit. But whether you’re checking Christmas market dates, concert listings, or special cultural events, it’s always best to consult the City of Venice’s official events website ahead of your visit to avoid disappointment as it is one of the most reliable sources for up-to-date and accurate information.

Table Of Contents

1. Christmas Markets
2. Regata dei Babbi Natale Santa Claus Regatta
3. Lido Christmas Village
4. Christmas Concerts
   • Big Vocal Orchestra!
   • Avvento in Musica Festival
   • Christmas Concert by the Pueri Cantores del Veneto
   • Vivaldi at San Vidal Church
5. Skating Rinks
6. Christmas Apertifs
7. Santa Claus Race
8. Natale di Vetro – Christmas in Glass in Murano
   • Happy Travels, Adventurers

Christmas Markets

If you’re visiting Venice during the festive season, you’ll find that while the city’s Christmas markets may be smaller than those in other European destinations, they’re filled with local charm and authenticity. Each one offers a glimpse into Venetian craftsmanship, from Murano glass ornaments to handmade lace and seasonal treats. Here are some of the best Christmas markets in and around Venice to explore during your holiday visit. For a full list and detailed descriptions of each market, check out our dedicated guide.

• Campo San Maurizio Antiques Christmas Market (Dec 6–8) – A long-running Venetian tradition featuring around 60 antique dealers from Italy and beyond, selling vintage books, prints, and rare collectibles in one of Venice’s most charming squares. Open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
• Christmas Market of Venetian Ceramists (Dec 20–22) – Held at the Bochaleri Association in Castello, this market and exhibition celebrates Venice’s ceramic traditions with live demonstrations, artist talks, and beautiful handmade ceramics for sale. Open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM.
• Giornata della Creatività at the Rialto Fish Market (Third Sunday of December) – For one festive day, the historic market transforms into a creative fair with around 60 local artisans selling handmade jewellery, bags, books, and decorations, ending with a 5 PM concert and cicchetti from local vendors. Open 10 AM–7 PM.
• Burano Christmas Market (Dec 6–8 & 13–15) – Set in the island’s old fish market square, this charming market transforms colourful Burano into a festive wonderland with stalls selling handmade crafts, lace ornaments, scarves, and local sweets in a warm, community atmosphere.
• Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio Christmas Market (Dec 14) – This lively local market fills the quiet Cannaregio square with artisan stalls, handmade gifts, decorations, and warm seasonal treats, offering a relaxed, community-focused alternative to the busier tourist spots. Open from 10 AM.
• Piazza Ferretto Christmas Market (late Nov–Dec 28) – Mestre’s festive centrepiece with 26 wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
• “Waiting for Christmas” Market, Via Manin (Last Weekend of December) – A festive Mestre market with handmade crafts, local delicacies, Santa’s post office, and even a “Christmas Dog” village for furry friends. Open 9 AM–8 PM.

Regata dei Babbi Natale Santa Claus Regatta

Every December, Venice’s Regata dei Babbi Natale (Santa Claus Regatta) transforms the Grand Canal into a whimsical parade of Santas rowing traditional Venetian boats decorated with festive flair. The event, which began in the early 2010s, was created by local rowing clubs to celebrate both Venice’s ancient rowing heritage and the joy of the holiday season. Dozens of rowers dressed as Santa glide through the city’s waterways from Punta della Dogana to the Rialto Bridge, where the festivities culminate with music, awards, and lively celebrations along the docks.

The best viewing spots include the Rialto Bridge, Fondamenta della Salute, and stretches of the Grand Canal between Accademia and Ca’ Rezzonico. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly, arrive early, and join in the festive atmosphere by donning something red or sparkly. For more info on this event, check out our dedicated guide.

Lido Christmas Village

On the first weekend in December, the Lido di Venezia (Lido Island), Venice’s elegant barrier island separating the lagoon from the Adriatic Sea, known for its long sandy beaches and Belle Époque villas, turns festive for the annual Christmas Island celebration. You can reach Lido Island easily by taking a vaporetto from Line 1 or Line 5.1 from Piazzale Roma or St. Mark’s Square, which takes about 20–25 minutes.

A lively holiday event fills the island with markets that stretch between Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta and Piazzale Ravà. Along with the market, you can catch Christmas concerts, parties, and even a charming little train that winds its way through the island.

Christmas Concerts

Big Vocal Orchestra!

One of our favourite memories of our time in Venice at Christmas was attending a performance by the Big Vocal Orchestra. This extraordinary ensemble, made up of nearly 200 voices, hosts a Christmas concert, “A Million Dreams,” held at the historic Teatro Goldoni. Teatro Goldoni in Venice was inaugurated in 1622, making it over 400 years old and seeing a performance here feels like getting a chance to step into history.

Directed by Marco Toso Borella, the show blends cinematic soundtracks, pop hits, gospel, spirituals, and classical pieces into a vibrant, immersive journey. I definitely cried more than once watching this show, both out of sheer wonder and awe, but also out of the immense Christmas spirit I felt all around me.

Every year, the Big Vocal Orchestra also performs two outdoor concerts to celebrate the festive season. In 2024, the Big Vocal Orchestra performed two free concerts on Friday, December 27th, in Piazza Ferretto at 6:00 PM in Mestre, while the second will be held on Sunday, December 29th, in Piazza San Marco, also at 6:00 PM. This gives you an idea of when to expect their free concert in future, but always keep on top of their dates online.

Avvento in Musica Festival

The Avvento in Musica concert series is a series of four concerts held in December in the atmospheric Chiesa di San Trovaso. As part of the Callido Nacchini Festival and the city’s Le Città in Festa program, the series celebrates sacred music and the historic 1765 Gaetano Callido organ. Each Sunday concert features a unique programme, music from the Italian Baroque, pastoral melodies, Corelli’s Christmas Concerto and Vivaldi’s Winter.

Christmas Concert by the Pueri Cantores del Veneto

On Christmas Eve, the Pueri Cantores del Veneto choir is one of the most charming and heart-warming festive events held in the Piazza Ferretto. Their concert, “Musicamor,” is free for all to attend and invites audiences to rediscover the true spirit of Christmas through a mix of traditional and contemporary choral works. The programme includes compositions by Jim Papoulis, Rolf Lovland, Gabriel Fauré, Irving Berlin, J.S. Bach, and even modern composers like A.R. Rahman and Ethan Sperry. Making it the perfect way to spend Christmas Eve in Mestre.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pueri Cantores del Veneto (@puericantoresveneto)

Vivaldi at San Vidal Church

Throughout December, the Interpreti Veneziani perform Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons at San Vidal Church, up to and including Christmas Day. Though not a traditional Christmas concert, the brilliance of Vivaldi’s music, performed in his own city, captures the season’s spirit of renewal and wonder. The energy of Spring, the warmth of Summer, and the crystalline notes of Winter echo the rhythms of life, light, and reflection that define the holidays. Surrounded by the candlelit beauty of San Vidal, the concert feels both festive and timeless, a gift of Venetian music at its finest.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by paola vianale (@paolavianale)

Skating Rinks

In Venice, there are two skating rinks where you can enjoy some Christmas music and glide across the ice surrounded by twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the joyful buzz of the holiday season. On the Island, the San Polo skating rink is open in the Campo San Polo from the end of November until the last day of Carnival in March. In Venice, the skating rinks set up during the Christmas season aren’t made of real ice, as winter temperatures rarely drop low enough to keep the ice frozen. Instead, they use high-quality synthetic ice panels that mimic the smooth glide of real ice while being eco-friendly. If you’re only used to skating on real ice, this can take some getting used to, but it’s still a fun experience if you’ve never been on one before.

The other skating rink is located on the mainland in Mestre, and is open every day in the Piazza Mercato from mid-November until early January. Both locations offer skate rentals, because, let’s be honest, it’s unlikely you managed to squeeze a pair of skates into your suitcase.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Città di Venezia (@comunevenezia)

Christmas Apertifs

For the past three years, the Società San Giacomo Benefica, a long-standing Venetian charity dedicated to supporting local families and individuals in need, has organized Christmas Aperitifs, held from December 20th to 23rd, between 6 pm and 9 pm in Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio. During the event, volunteers serve hearty local favourites such as pasta, musetto and meatballs. As a tourist, please refrain from eating the food since it’s meant for families in need. Instead, you can join in on the celebration by making a donation and enjoying the live Christmas concerts throughout the evening. Everything from Jazz to traditional festive music, this is such a heartwarming event to see the real community spirit still alive in Venice.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by San Giacomo Benefica (@beneficasangiacomo)

Santa Claus Race

If you are lucky enough to find yourself in Venice during the Annual Santa Claus Race, count yourself as very lucky. Every year, locals (and visitors alike) lace up their running shoes and don a Santa hat for a cheerful 5km run that winds through Venice. Entry costs €10 for adults ( children under 12 participate for free), and if you register in advance, you’ll get a free Santa outfit, refreshments, and a small gift at the finish line. Proceeds will go to AVAPO Venezia Onlus, supporting local charitable work. Spots are limited, so be sure to register online as early as you can. If you don’t want to take part in the run, just watching the runners is such an enjoyable thing to see, as hundreds of Santas take to the streets of Venice!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Running Club Venezia (@runningclubvenezia)

Natale di Vetro – Christmas in Glass in Murano

Every December, the island of Murano, renowned worldwide for its exquisite Venetian glass, celebrates Natale di Vetro, Christmas in Glass. Beginning on December 6, the feast day of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of glassblowers, the island transforms into a dazzling display of holiday spirit, Murano style, with decorations crafted entirely from glass. The most iconic part of these celebrations is the stunning seven-metre glass Christmas tree, which shimmers under the winter sun. The decorations strung above the canals add an extra touch of charm to Murano’s already picturesque and enchanting island atmosphere.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fabio Anello (@fabio_prince93)

You can reach Murano easily by vaporetto. The most direct routes are Line 4.1 or 4.2 from Fondamente Nove or San Zaccaria, taking about 15–20 minutes. You can also take Line 3 directly from Piazzale Roma or the train station (Santa Lucia).

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Instagramers Venezia (@igersvenezia)

Spending Christmas in Venice is like stepping into a quieter, dreamier version of the city, one where twinkling lights reflect on still canals, the scent of mulled wine drifts through narrow streets, and the sound of church bells mingles with festive music. Whether you’re watching Santas row down the Grand Canal, browsing a local artisan market, or simply wandering misty alleyways lit with holiday glow, the season here feels intimate and timeless.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Christmas in Venice: The Ultimate Guide to the Most Magical Events in the Lagoon first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

While planning my Christmas holiday in Venice, I was surprised by how little in-depth information existed about the Santa Claus Water Parade in Venice, considering how interesting I found the concept of the event. There were only a handful of short articles and basic event listings. It felt like a quiet secret that was longing to be discovered.

After experiencing it firsthand this year, I knew I had to come back and share everything I learned about this unforgettable Christmas tradition. It’s one of the most charming winter events in Venice, an irresistible blend of local rowing culture, holiday cheer, and community joy.

Here’s everything you need to know about this magical regatta, and why you should plan your December visit around it.

Table Of Contents

1. The History Behind the Regata dei Babbi Natale
2. The History of Regattas in Venice
3. When is the Regata dei Babbi Natale, Santa Regatta
4. The Regata dei Babbi Natale Route
5. Where to Watch the Parade
6. Why It's One of the Best Events in Venice
7. Tips for Watching the Regatta

The History Behind the Regata dei Babbi Natale

While it might look like a centuries-old Venetian ritual, the Regata dei Babbi Natale (Santa Regatta) is actually a fairly recent tradition, especially by Venetian standards. It began in the early 2010s, born from a collaboration between local rowing clubs and the City of Venice to add some festive cheer to the canals. But the event draws on a much older legacy: the art of rowing in Venice is as ancient as the city itself.

The traditional Venetian rowing technique known as voga alla veneta, which originated in the Republic of Venice, has been preserved and celebrated for centuries, with formal rowing societies like the Reale Società Canottieri Bucintoro founded as early as 1882 to keep the tradition alive. This unique technique, standing up and facing forward, still thrives today thanks to local rowing clubs and a passionate community that keeps the tradition alive. Each year, members of local rowing clubs dress as Santa Claus and row their boats (typically traditional mascarete or sandoli) through the city’s most iconic waterway.

The History of Regattas in Venice

This parade fits into a long tradition of Venetian regattas. Regattas have been part of life in Venice since at least the 13th century. They were used to celebrate military victories, royal visits and religious festivals. Even today, rowing events are a key part of the city’s cultural calendar. While the Santa regatta is newer, it draws from that same tradition of dressing up, decorating boats and turning the water into a stage.

When is the Regata dei Babbi Natale, Santa Regatta

The regatta usually takes place on a Sunday in mid-December. While dates may vary slightly each year, it typically begins around 10:00 a.m. For the most up-to-date information on the date and time of the event, it’s best to check the official Venice Events website or ask your hotel staff. When it comes to events like this, the locals are always the most reliable source of insight and information.

The Regata dei Babbi Natale Route

At Punta della Dogana, the eye-catching triangular intersection of the Grand Canal and the Giudecca Canal, the regatta usually starts with a rally. The Santas then take off into the Grand Canal, sailing beneath bridges, past Venetian palazzi, and finally toward the Rialto Bridge, where the regatta comes to a grand finale.

Just outside the Rialto Market, the dock along Campo della Pescaria becomes the heart of the celebration, where prizes are handed out for the best-decorated boats and most creative costumes. Then, the real fun begins, with music, dancing, and plenty of festive cheer!

Where to Watch the Parade

If you want the best view of this floating Christmas carnival, aim to arrive early. The most scenic and crowded spots include:

• Ponte di Rialto (Rialto Bridge): This bridge offers sweeping views of the canal, but it’s one of the busiest spots on the route, so get there either to scout out your spot.
• Fondamenta della Salute: This area is near the starting point at Punta della Dogana, and provides an up-close look at the rally before departure.
• Along the Grand Canal between Accademia and Ca’ Rezzonico: These stretches offer lovely views without the thickest crowds.

Why It’s One of the Best Events in Venice

Venice is never short on grand spectacles; Carnevale and the Historical Regatta are legendary in their own right, but the Santa Claus Water Parade offers a quieter kind of magic. Held in the heart of winter, during the off-season, it gives you the rare chance to experience the city with fewer crowds. Without the usual tourist throngs, Venice reveals more of its authentic, local character, its misty canals, peaceful alleyways, and festive spirit shining through. As a bonus, winter travel often comes with more budget-friendly accommodation, making it an excellent time to visit.

Tips for Watching the Regatta

A little planning will make the Regata dei Babbi Natale much more enjoyable if you intend to see it in person, especially on Venice’s chilly December mornings. Here’s how to make the most of the celebrations:

• Arrive Early: The parade typically begins around 10:30 a.m., but the best canal-side spots, especially near the Rialto Bridge or Punta della Dogana, fill up fast. Arrive 30 to 45 minutes early to secure a clear view.
• Dress for the Weather: December in Venice can be damp and cold, and standing still along the canal makes it feel even colder. Layer up with a warm coat, scarf, gloves, and comfortable, water-resistant shoes. A hat is essential, and don’t underestimate the value of thermal socks.
• Bring Hand Warmers and a Hot Drink: Pack some hand warmers in your pockets and bring a thermos of coffee, tea, or even mulled wine to stay warm while you wait for the Santas to glide by.
• Wear Something Festive: Many Venetians show up in Santa hats, red scarves, or holiday-themed gear, so don’t be shy about getting into the spirit. A little sparkle or red adds to the joy and helps you feel part of the celebration.
• Plan to Walk, Not Ride: Because the Grand Canal is partially restricted for the event, vaporetto service may be limited or rerouted during the parade. Walking is the best way to move around the city that morning, plus, it gives you more chances to catch the boats from different viewpoints.
• Keep Your Camera Handy: The colourful boats, costumed rowers, and reflections on the canal make for stunning photos. Charge your phone or camera in advance and consider bringing a portable charger if you’ll be out all day.
• Be Courteous: Remember, you are a guest in the city. And this tradition is made possible by the local community and is for the locals. Avoid blocking doorways, bridges, or narrow walkways and always ensure you are being courteous to those other spectators around you.

I really do hope this post encourages you to visit Venice at Christmas and see the variety of seasonal delights that are hidden around every canal in this precious city! A unique Christmas memory is waiting for you along the Grand Canal.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Everything You Need to Know About Venice’s Regata dei Babbi Natale Santa Claus Regatta first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.