Christmas in Lignano 2025: markets and Things to Do

Experience the magic of the holidays with the Christmas markets in Lignano Sabbiadoro! From 5 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, the seaside resort transforms into a Christmas kingdom, illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights and decorated with enchanting ornaments. The celebrations continue until the Epiphany, making Christmas even more special.

Don't miss the chance to skate on the circular ice rink around the large Christmas Tree in Piazza Fontana, a fun experience for both adults and children.

Strolling along Viale Tolmezzo to Parco San Giovanni Bosco, you will discover hundreds of wooden huts offering gourmet food and wine specialties in the Village of Taste and unique handcrafted treasures: Christmas decorations, small trees, handmade arrangements, stockings, scented candles, carved wooden items, costume jewelry, and fine jewelry.

In Parco San Giovanni Bosco, the Santa Claus Village awaits, with the house where children can deliver their letters and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

The Christmas markets in Lignano Sabbiadoro are the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas, find special gifts, and spend precious moments with friends and family, surrounded by tradition, fun, and festive atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming you to experience the joy and warmth of Christmas in a charming corner of the city.
 

Christmas Market Guide:
What to do at Christmas in Lignano Sabbiadoro 2025/2026

Discover Lignano Sabbiadoro during the Christmas season: opening dates and times, activities, events, the Village of Taste, the Santa Claus Village, and the ice skating rink. Every year, Christmas in Lignano grows with new attractions and a rich calendar of events.

From 6 December to Epiphany, Lignano transforms into a magical corner where folklore, tradition, and fun create the perfect atmosphere to celebrate Christmas with family and friends.
 

• Grand Christmas Tree
• Sand Nativity
• Santa Claus Village
• Village of Taste
• Ice Skating Rink
• Winter Beach
• Ferris Wheel
• Lignano Express Train
• Christmas in Pineta
• Christmas Market Map
• Christmas Events Schedule in Lignano 2025

Grand Christmas Tree in Piazza Fontana

The grand Christmas tree towers in the main square of Lignano Sabbiadoro, Piazza Fontana, located right above the historic fountain, one of the symbols of the seaside resort. Thousands of lights and decorations illuminate this 16-meter-high tree, creating a magical atmosphere that brightens the streets and the heart of the town. Around the tree, you can find the ice skating rink, while along Via Tolmezzo you can visit the Christmas markets, which extend all the way to Parco San Giovanni Bosco.

Sand Nativity

The Sand Nativity of Lignano Sabbiadoro, now in its 22nd edition 2025/2026, is one of the main attractions of the Christmas season. Every year, tens of thousands of visitors from all over Europe stop here to admire the magnificent sculptures created by the Dome Aghe Savalon d’Aur Association, one of the most renowned in Italy, which brings together some of the best artists specialized in sand modeling. Entrance is free, with the possibility to make a donation: all proceeds will be donated to charity.

Go to the dedicated page for the Sand Nativity

Santa Claus Village

The Santa Claus Village comes alive in Parco San Giovanni Bosco in Lignano Sabbiadoro. During the Christmas events, the town's central park transforms into a magical place where children can play and have fun with rides, inflatables, games for the little ones and the traditional carousel. At the intersection of Viale Venezia and Via Tolmezzo, several kiosks offer sweets, cotton candy, hot chocolate, and sandwiches. A must-see is the Santa Claus House, where your children can meet Santa in person and hand him their letters.

Visit the dedicated page for the Santa Claus Village

Santa Claus Village Days and Opening Times 2025/2026

COME MEET SANTA CLAUS
From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on the following days:

• 6–7–8 December
• 13–14 December
• 20–21–22–23–24 December

Workshops and shows for children and their families:

• 7 December – 2:30 PM – Santa Claus Post Office
• 13 December – 2:00–6:00 PM – Christmas for Kids: the youth center invites you to an afternoon of board games
• 14 December – 2:30 PM – Cookie Time: workshop to make cookies with dough and other materials
• 21 December – 2:00–6:00 PM – Face painting, soap bubbles, baby dance, and much more!
• 26 December – 2:00–6:00 PM – Face painting, soap bubbles, baby dance, and much more!
• 30 December – from 3:00 PM – Children’s New Year’s Eve
• 3 January – 2:00–6:00 PM – Face painting, soap bubbles, baby dance, and much more!
• 4 January – 2:00–6:00 PM – Face painting, soap bubbles, baby dance, and much more!

Opening times and days for the rides 2025-26

• 6–8 December 2025: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–9:00 PM
• 8–11 December 2025: 2:30–7:00 PM
• 12–14 December 2025: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–9:00 PM
• 15–18 December 2025: 2:30–7:00 PM
• 19 December 2025 – 6 January 2026: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–9:00 PM
• 7–8 January 2026: 2:30–7:00 PM
• 9–11 January 2026: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–9:00 PM

Village of Taste

The Christmas markets of Lignano Sabbiadoro are set in two main areas: Via Tolmezzo and Parco San Giovanni Bosco. Here comes to life the Village of Taste, with numerous huts dedicated to food & beverage. You can enjoy typical dishes from Friuli Venezia Giulia, street food options, tastings of selected wines, and craft beers, including award-winning varieties. There will also be arrosticini and specialties from Austria, Spain, and Argentina. For lovers of tradition, mulled wine, hot drinks, hot dogs, and various types of hamburgers will always be available.

 Visit the dedicated page for the Village of Taste

Village of Taste Days and Opening Times 2025/2026

Food & Beverage – Parco San Giovanni Bosco

• 5 December 2025: 5:00 PM–12:00 AM
• 6 → 8 December 2025: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
• 9 → 11 December 2025: closed
• 12 → 14 December 2025: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
• 15 → 18 December 2025: closed
• 19 December 2025 → 6 January 2026: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
• 7 → 8 January 2026: closed
• 9 → 11 January 2026: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM

Commercial – Via Tolmezzo

• 6 → 8 December 2025: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
• 9 → 11 December 2025: closed
• 12 → 14 December 2025: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
• 15 → 18 December 2025: closed
• 19 December 2025 → 6 January 2026: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
• 7 → 8 January 2026: closed
• 10 → 11 January 2026: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Ice Skating Rink

The classic ice skating rink of Lignano Sabbiadoro awaits you in Piazza Fontana, at the foot of the grand Christmas tree. Considered one of the largest in Europe, it is set in a circular area of over 500 m², offering plenty of space to skate with friends and family. The experience is made even more enchanting by the Christmas music playing, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

 Visit the dedicated page of the ice skating rink

Ice Skating Rink Days and Opening Times 2025/2026

• 6 → 8 December 2025: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM
• 8 → 11 December 2025: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–8:00 PM
• 12 → 14 December 2025: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM
• 15 → 18 December 2025: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–8:00 PM
• 19 December 2025 → 6 January 2026: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM
• 7 → 8 January 2026: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–8:00 PM
• 9 → 11 January 2026: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM

Winter Beach

 

Experience the magic of the sea with Lignano in winter!
At Beach Office 5 in Sabbiadoro, a special area with umbrellas, sunbeds, and deck chairs awaits you, allowing you to enjoy the sound of the waves and the unique Christmas atmosphere of the season. From 5 December to 11 January, the Beach Bar welcomes you with hot drinks and seaside aperitifs for an unforgettable moment of relaxation.

Winter Beach Days and Opening Times 2025/2026

From 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

• 5 → 8 December 2025
• 12 → 14 December 2025
• 19 December 2025 → 11 January 2026

Ferris Wheel

Ride the Ferris Wheel!
Enjoy the large Ferris Wheel with its cabins and a spectacular view of Lignano Sabbiadoro. On Viale Gorizia, near the Christmas tree and the ice rink, admire the lights, attractions, and the magic of the city center from above.

Visit the dedicated page for the Ferris Wheel

Ferris Wheel Days and Opening Times 2025/2026

• 12 → 14 December 2025: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM
• 15 → 18 December 2025: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–8:00 PM
• 19 December 2025 → 6 January 2026: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM
• 7 → 8 January 2026: 10:30 AM–12:30 PM and 2:30–8:00 PM
• 9 → 11 January 2026: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM

 

Lignano Express Train

​Throughout the event, the historic Lignano Express Train will be operating, connecting Lignano Sabbiadoro and Lignano Pineta for free. Departure is scheduled in front of the Sand Nativity, while the arrival stop is in Piazza del Sole, in the heart of Pineta. A convenient way to move between the main Christmas attractions of the city.

 Visit the dedicated page for the Lignano Express Train

Train Schedule Days and Times 2025/2026

• 6 → 8 December 2025
• 13 → 14 December 2025
• 20 → 24 December 2025
• 26 December 2025 – 6 January 2026
• 10 → 11 January 2026

Departures:

• 11:00 – Sand Nativity
• 12:00 – Piazza del Sole
• 15:00 – Sand Nativity
• 16:00 – Piazza del Sole
• 17:00 – Sand Nativity
• 18:00 – Piazza del Sole

Christmas in Pineta

Christmas in Pineta awaits you in Piazza del Sole, in the heart of Lignano Pineta, with a festive area full of lights, decorations, and a charming village of food and craft stalls. The little ones can have fun in a free entertainment area designed just for them. To move comfortably between Pineta and Sabbiadoro, you can use the Lignano Express Train, operating for free throughout the event period. Check schedules, service days, and stops to plan your visit.

Visit the dedicated page for Christmas in Pineta.

Attraction Days and Hours 2025/2026

• 6 → 8 December: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
• 9 → 12 December: 3:00–7:00 PM
• 13 → 14 December: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
• 15 → 19 December: 3:00–7:00 PM
• 20 → 24 December: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
• 25 December: 3:00–8:00 PM
• 26 December → 6 January: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
• 7 → 9 January: 3:00–7:00 PM
• 10 → 11 January: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM

Christmas Market Map

Christmas Market and Villaggio del Gusto Exhibitors

Via Tolmezzo

• Christmas decorations and clothing – Bruno Massimo
• Home goods, tablecloths, cushions, and more – De Sario Elvira
• Wool fashion accessories Made in Italy and small leather goods – Moonlight

Parco San Giovanni Bosco

• Drinks & Food Made in FVG… and beyond! – Bully In Tour
• Traditional Friulian dishes and wines – Osteria SacheBurache
• PastaLaVista – Food & Cocktails Area
• Soft polenta and local specialties – Mandi, Friulian tradition
• Artisan burgers – Arts Burger
• Unexpected ravioli creations – Margarita’ Lounge
• Arrosticini, octopus sandwiches, and warm winter specialties – A’mare
• Paella, Sangria, and delights from Spain – Los Garridos
• Smash burger made in Friuli – King Pub
• Carnic cuisine
• The porchetta temple – Roberti Paolo
• Sweets from around the world, kurtoskalacs, mulled wine, and hot chocolate – Sara Stefanacci
• Boiled meats, pulled pork, ribs, and frico Made in Friuli – Tenda Bar
• Sweet and savory fried foods – Fritto Misto
• Austrian specialties – Platzhirsch
• Frittellandia – LKM Association
• Authentic Neapolitan cuisine – Cavò Food & Drinks
• Fish and Wine Lovers – Tahiri
• Grilled meats, Roman porchetta, and homemade cured meats – Macelleria Pineda
• Venetian and Friulian specialties – Pierangelo Valvasori
• Craft beer and gourmet cuisine – La Culla del Luppolo Brewery & Bistrot
• Artisan burgers, arrosticini, club sandwiches, artistic toasts – Pancor

 

Christmas 2025 Event Schedule

Restaurants open at Christmas?

Restaurants open in Lignano Sabbiadoro area:

• Acquapazza (closed 24-25/12)
• Acqua Sale nel Mondo
• Al Piccolo Cason
• Alle Bocce
• Arador
• Bar Baricentro
• Bar Gelateria King's
• Bar Zona
• Bella Napoli
• Birreria nel Mondo
• Caffè Fontana
• Central Park
• Dolce e Salato
• Enoteca da Bidin
• Filè Milion
• Flamingo (from 5/12 to 6/01)
• Gelateria Your
• Hostaria da Mario
• Il Gambero
• Il Panino a modo tuo
• King Pub
• Kristal
• L'abbraccio Pizza Kebab
• L'Emporio
• La Dogana
• La Lanterna
• La Maranese
• La Taverna
• La Tavernetta Vitasana
• Livigno
• Mandi Parentesi Friulana
• Neverland
• Nuovo Bar Borsa
• Ory's
• Osteria Scarpa
• Pancor
• Park Avenue
• Pasticceria Argana
• Pasticceria Torinese
• Pullman Bar
• Ristorante Sapio
• Ristorantino Baby
• The Old Stable (closed from 25/12 to 1/01)
• Trattoria La Rosa

Restaurants open in Pineta/Riviera area:

• Enoteca Braceria Carbon Neri
• Hollywood Cafè
• Il Panino (closed on 25/12)
• Kandoo
• Meating Brasserie
• Mylos Cafè
• Ricky Hostaria
• Ristopizza Stadio (closed from 22/12 to 15/01)
• Tip Tap Risto Cafè

Shops open at Christmas?

Sabbiadoro area:

• Aloisius
• Bei Merilin
• Best Kids 5
• Cose di Burgato
• Escalà Mode
• Facciomagliette Store
• Gini
• Kaya Abbigliamento
• Micidiale Boys
• Murano Glass & Jewelry
• Nadalini
• Ottica Micidiale
• Samsara
• Sebastianis
• Stilmoda
• Times
• Vape Store

Pineta area

• Abbigliamento Mary Più
• East Wind
• Libreria Pineta Junior
• Pineta Jewelry
• Times

Hotels open at Christmas?

• Art Hotel Principe
• Bella Italia EFA Village
• Diva Hotel
• HC Resort Lignano
• Hotel Adria
• Hotel Blue Marine
• Hotel Centrale
• Hotel Columbus
• Hotel Etna
• Hotel Golf Inn
• Hotel Greif
• Hotel Imperia
• Hotel Nuova Flavia
• Hotel Savoia
• Hotel Trieste Mare
• Hotel Tivoli

Aparthotels

• Aparthotel Acapulco
• Aparthotel Albatros
• Aparthotel Holiday
• Monaco Apartments
• Sky Residence

Agencies / Apartments / Camping

• Agenzia Anny
• Agenzia Nadalini
• Agenzia Sun Express
• Agenzia Unitas Marina
• Agenzia Vacanze 2001
• Camping Sabbiadoro
• Villa Anna
• Ville Green Village Resort

Where to park?

You can park for free near the event, in the following streets and areas of the seaside town:

• Lungomare Trieste (access from Via Marina)
• Via Latisana
• Via Vicenza
• Viale Verona
• Viale dei Platani
• Via Lagunare
• Viale Italia