From 27 November 2025 to 6 January 2026, Lugano lights up with festive magic: the city centre transforms into a refined, scenic trail of lights and traditions, with the majestic Christmas tree in Piazza della Riforma as its glowing heart.
Among the wooden market stalls, visitors discover quality craftsmanship, elegant decorations and authentic local flavours. The food chalets turn into sophisticated open-air lounges: aperitifs, regional delicacies, live music and DJ sets create a stylish and vibrant atmosphere.
In the enchanting Parco Ciani, an iconic ice rink set amidst nature offers unforgettable moments for both adults and children.
Warm, welcoming, and full of charm, Lugano is one of Switzerland’s most captivating Christmas destinations — a place where tradition, culture and emotions come together.
Highlights
Tree Lighting Ceremony
27 November – 18:00 | Piazza della Riforma
A symbolic moment that lights up the entire city. A live countdown, special guests, and magic that bursts into life in an instant.
Christmas Market
27.11 – 24.12 and 26.12 – 06.01 | City Centre (Piazza Manzoni, Via Nassa, Piazza Dante)
More than 60 stalls offering decorations, crafts, gift ideas and the sweet scents of winter.
Food Chalets & Live Music
27.11 – 04.01 | Piazza della Riforma
Between Piazza della Riforma and Piazza Manzoni, wooden chalets serve mulled wine, local dishes and festive vibes… with music, DJ sets and light projections on the surrounding façades.
RSI Live – Radio & TV in Piazza della Riforma
01.12 – 24.12 | Piazza della Riforma
The RSI Chalet broadcasts live from the square: interviews, music, special guests and unique moments that bring the atmosphere to life.
AIL ice village – Ice Rink & Pop-Up Lounge
From 27 November | Parco Ciani
In the heart of Parco Ciani, the AIL ice village emerges — a true winter wonderland where fun and relaxation meet. After skating or playing, unwind in the alpine-chic pop-up lounge: sweet treats, aperitifs and a warm, cosy atmosphere made for magical moments.
Ice Minigolf
From 27 November | Parco Ciani
Alongside the natural ice rink, this year’s big novelty: minigolf on ice, a playful activity perfect for all ages.
Family Christmas Village
23.12 – 06.01 | Asilo Ciani
A child-friendly world with free admission: games and creative workshops curated by L’ideatorio USI and Museo in erba.
Family Shows – Teatro Foce
Free entry
- 8 December – “Penny and the First Snowflake
- 21 December – “Christmas to the Beat of Hip Hop”
- 14 December – “The Snow Queen” (Senza confini festival, Teatro Pan & LAC edu)
New Year’s Eve in the Piazza della Riforma
31.12 | Piazza della Riforma
On 31 December, a festive toast beneath the big tree — music and celebrations to welcome the New Year. On 1 January, the traditional greeting with the city authorities at the Palazzo dei Congressi.
Enchanting Nativity Scenes
08.12 – 06.01 | Darsena Parco Ciani and the Lakeside
At the Darsena, the Interactive Nativity Scene welcomes adults and children with scenes brought to life by lights and sound — a moment of wonder to share as a family.
Along the lakeside, the famous Submerged Nativity Scene illuminates the lakebed: statues resting underwater emerge through the reflections of the night, creating a rare and poetic spectacle found only here.