December, 09 2025 ( Updated December, 09 2025)
Top Christmas Experiences, Light Shows and Winter Activities Around the Lake
Lake Maggiore
is one of the most atmospheric destinations in Northern Italy during winter.
From November to January, the towns around the lake come alive with Christmas
lights, themed cruises, festive villages, markets and outdoor activities.
If you’re planning a winter getaway, here are the best winter events on Lake Maggiore you won’t want to miss.
The Most
Famous Santa’s Cave Experience on Lake Maggiore
Since 2009, the
Grotta di Babbo Natale has been a beloved Christmas attraction in Ornavasso.
Families can explore the Elf Village, enjoy live shows, and walk through a
two-hundred-meter underground tunnel that opens into a majestic 30-meter marble
hall where Santa welcomes visitors.
The 2025
edition adds new features, including the Castle of Light, a vibrant Elves Show,
a festive Disney-themed concert, and guided nature walks through the
surrounding landscape.
Date: December 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 20, 21, and
26, 2025
Location: (Verbania), Lake Maggiore
Read More: Grotta
di Babbo
Christmas
Cruises and Light Installations on the Borromean Islands
Isole di Luce
brings the Borromean Islands to life with atmospheric lighting, storytelling
tours and special evening cruises. It’s one of the most scenic winter
experiences on Lake Maggiore.
Date: Throughout the Christmas holidays, on
selected dates
Location: Stresa, Baveno & Isola dei
Pescatori
Read More: Isole di Luce and Baveno Tourism
A Festive
Light Show for Families and Visitors
From 29
November to 6 January, Baveno hosts The Golden Christmas House, a magical
open-air light show. Video projections, illuminated decorations and themed
activities make this event a perfect evening stop.
It is especially popular among couples and families looking for winter evenings on Lake Maggiore filled with colour and creativity.
Date: 29 November – 6 January
Location: Baveno
Read More: Golden Christmas House
A Unique Alpine Adventure Under the Moonlight
The Moonlit
Snowshoe Walk in Macugnaga offers one of the most memorable winter outdoor
activities near Lake Maggiore. Taking place on 3 January (with additional dates
available on request), this nighttime hike lets participants explore the snowy
trails at the foot of Monte Rosa under the natural glow of the moon.
It’s an
unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting the
region.
Date: 3 January (additional dates available
on request)
Location: Macugnaga
Read More: Moonlit Snowshoe Walk
Ice Skating,
Decorations and Winter Fun
Natale Aronese
features a large ice-skating rink and festive stalls placed right in Arona’s
central square. It’s one of the longest-running winter events on Lake Maggiore.
A note for
guests: our Aparthotel complex of 7 apartments directly overlooks the square
where the ice rink is located.
Date: 22 November – 1 March
Location: Arona (main square)
Read More: Natale Aronese
A One-Day
Festive Market by the Lakeside
Arona’s
Christmas Market, known as AronaTale, fills the lakeside promenade with wooden
stalls, artisan crafts, festive food and a cosy holiday atmosphere
Date: 14 December
Location: Arona, lakeside promenade
Read More: Christmas Market in Arona
A Christmas Light Walk on Lake Maggiore
Lucine di Natale transforms Leggiuno into a glowing Christmas village with a scenic illuminated walking route, festive stalls and family entertainment. Millions of LED lights create a magical atmosphere, perfect for an evening winter stroll by the lake.
Date: Early December – Early January
Location: Leggiuno (Lake Maggiore, VA)
Website: Lucine di natale
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