Savona is fully entering the Christmas season with a rich calendar of events from Friday, December 19 to Sunday, December 21. The city centre and its most iconic locations will host a variety of initiatives that blend tradition, music, craftsmanship and local heritage — perfect for residents and visitors alike to enjoy strolling through illuminated squares, concerts and historic gatherings.
At the centre of the festive spirit is the “Presepi in città” (Nativity Scenes in the City) project, which offers a widespread trail of nativity displays in churches, historic spaces, bookstores and neighbourhoods — combining popular tradition, artisan craftsmanship and contemporary interpretations of the nativity scene concept.
Friday, December 19 – Antique Market and City Walks
The weekend kicks off in Savona with a special edition of the Antique Market, taking place throughout the weekend in Via Paleocapa and other central areas. It’s a great opportunity to browse vintage items, collectibles and Christmas gift ideas while soaking up the holiday atmosphere in the historic centre.
Saturday, December 20 – Alpini Celebration and Concerts
Saturday promises a full schedule of events:
- 3:30 PM – 17th “Natale degli Alpini” in Piazza Sisto IV: A beloved local tradition featuring a performance by the Fanfara Alpina Monte Beigua brass band, a mass at the cathedral, a procession and the laying of a wreath at the Monument to the Fallen in Piazza Mameli.
- Afternoon – Artigianando on the Road: A showcase of local handmade crafts and creative products between Via Manzoni and Piazza Sisto.
- 6:00 PM – Holy Heart Gospel Choir in Piazza Sisto IV: A performance of spiritual and North American gospel music by the choir of the Accademia Teresiana.
- Evening – Christmas Concert by La Ginestra Women’s Choir at the Oratorio dei Santi Giovanni Battista, Evangelista e Petronilla: Traditional choral music to get you in the Christmas mood.
Sunday, December 21 – Confuoco and Carol Singing
Sunday’s events are highlighted by one of Savona’s most historic rituals: the Confuoco, a traditional fire ceremony in Piazza Sisto IV in which the flame from a burning log is interpreted as a good omen for the year ahead.
In the afternoon (3:30 PM), the city’s historic centre will come alive with itinerant Christmas carol performances by the ArtINcanto choir, spreading festive songs through streets and squares.
The weekend concludes with a concert by the Babilonia Ethnic Band at Teatro Chiabrera at 9:00 PM — a musical and theatrical evening whose proceeds will be donated to support projects by the local association Cresci for children and families in need.
🔔 Weekend at a glance:
Dec 19: Antique Market in city centre
Dec 20: Alpini celebration, craft pathway, gospel and choral concerts
Dec 21: Confuoco ceremony, roaming Christmas carols, charity concert at Teatro Chiabrera