We’re not joking. Since 2018, the city’s Christmas celebrations have been growing every year, making Empoli a true Christmas city.
The streets and squares in the city centre are lit up with decorations and displays, creating a stunning backdrop for Christmas shopping along the Empoli promenade. The historical buildings get a new look thanks to video projections and plays of light and Piazza Farinata degli Uberti becomes a winter wonderland during the “great snowfall”, repeated throughout the afternoon and early evening to the delight of tourists and residents alike.
Throughout the season, centrally located Piazza della Vittoria hosts a Christmas market filled with crafts, food and wine, where you can buy unique gifts or enjoy an excellent hot chocolate.
There are also lots of activities for children: from the Magical World of Father Christmas, with Santa’s house and postal service, to the “Brick Village”, where you can build fantastical creations with Lego, and the winter funfair in Piazza Matteotti complete with an ice-skating rink.
Lastly, young and old can climb on board the charming Christmas Train, to admire the city all decked out for the holidays.
Where: Empoli, old town (various locations)
When: November through January