The off-season in the Cinque Terre typically spans from the beginning of November through the week before Easter. However, things pick back up a bit for the holidays between Christmas and New Year’s.

Here’s a running list of happenings over the 2017 holiday period in the Cinque Terre (keep checking back as I will update as more events are released):

December 22nd: A free concert will be held in Vernazza’s church at 9pm. Advance reservations are requested (although I highly doubt they’ll turn people away at the door).

December 23rd: The highly awaited inauguration and lighting of Manarola’s Presepe (nativity scene), which covers the hillside opposite the village, will take place at 5:30pm. Expect fireworks (and lots of people). I recommend arriving early as there will be events preceding the lighting.

Photo credit: Michael Pasini

December 24th: At 9:30pm Monterosso will hold a religious procession which will start in the sea (spectators will be at the water’s edge) at the Molo dei Pescatori in the historical center of the village. The procession will lead to the church where at circa 10:30pm a special Christmas Eve Mass will be held. Following Mass, hot chocolate, panettone (Italian Christmas cake) and Christmas cheer will be shared.

December 26th through January 5th: On various dates there will guided excursions of Manarola’s world famous Presepe (nativity scene) as well as planned visits to local wineries. Advance reservations required (see details below).

December 31st: New Year’s Eve party with deejay in Monterosso’s Piazza Garibaldi starting at 11pm.

From my family to yours, Happy Holidays!

Amy