Trentino’s Winter Wonderland – Christmas in Lake Garda

STORY BY Megan Hughes 21st November 2017

While Lake Garda is undeniably a summer paradise, what many do not know is that Christmas in Lake Garda is also an absolute treat. As the nights draw in, Lake Garda comes alive with winter festivals and events, while children get the chance to hone their skills as Santa’s little helpers.

Christmas in Lake Garda for Children

Santa’s House & the Elves Academy

What could be better than a visit to Santa’s house at Christmas time? This beautiful ancient town castle is full of festive surprises for a brilliant experience for the whole family, with games, letters to Santa, and Christmas-themed workshops. If that wasn’t enough, Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be there to hear all your Christmas wishes this year.

If your little ones want to help the big man out this year, they can apply to the Elves Academy at Riva del Garda. Applications are only considered if prospective helpers are under the age of 12, must have some experience with toys, and must profess a love of antlered animals. A tough selection process!

Once admitted to the exclusive Elves Academy, potential helpers will be under the wing of ELFO, Efficient Leader of the Fairy Order with games, activities, fun and laughter throughout the weekend to earn their diploma as qualified elf! This magical weekend ends with a visit to Santa’s house to meet Father Christmas himself; what a treat!

The Academy is open at weekends throughout December but be aware that entry to the Elves Academy is possible only by booking in one of the partner accommodation.

Christmas in Lake Garda for Adults

Arco Lake Garda Christmas Market

Taking place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from November 17 to January 7 2018, the Arco Christmas Market is sure to get you in the festive spirit. Sample the local cuisine, sip on the area’s amazing wines and marvel in the architecture of the town, from the Castle to Palazzo Marchetti and the Hasburg Gardens. On the 9th of December, enjoy a Moonlight show and fireworks display from the historic town centre.

It’s not all traditional festivities though as Arco have brought a modern touch to their Christmas Market this year. From 26 December to 7 January, computer graphics and light effects will be used to create a fairytale narrative projected onto the surrounding historic buildings. Beautiful, entertaining and emotive, this display is sure to illuminate the unique features of the area.

Canale di Tenno Christmas Market

A gorgeous market in the medieval village of Canale di Tenno, a few miles from Lake Garda. This is a village that keeps a quaint, beautiful charm, with narrow cobbled streets lined with stone built houses. The Market itself will be operating on Saturdays and Sundays in December and offer a chance to feast on local produce in the old tavern as well as examining the crafts of the area. However, the main attraction is the live nativity scene that is performed on Boxing Day, accompanied by traditional Christmas carols.

Christmas in Nago and Torbole

The beautiful lakeside villages of Nago and Torbole are decked out in sparkling lights throughout the festive season, which give a magical feel to the picturesque harbour. For any foodies, this is the ideal Christmas destination, as events such as the ‘Caminar, magnar entant che ven Nadal” (food and wine stroll) and the “Festa del Broccolo” (broccoli festival!) run throughout the festive period. There is also a celebrity chef cooking show, food and wine market, concerts and entertainment for younger visitors.

From Taste to Taste – Riva del Garda

Continuing the foodie theme (we are in Italy after all…) Di Gusto in Gusto will bring the Trentino regions most traditional flavours and aromas to Riva del Garda this Christmas. Taste, buy and explore the area’s specialties in an enchanting festive village setting. Running across various dates from December 2nd to January 7th 2018 it’s the perfect place for adults to enjoy the best of the local area while their children are busy learning at the Elves Academy.

If all of this food talk has got you thinking about how you’ll work off that cheese and wine, never fear! The Garda Trentino Xmas Trail, new for 2017, is a thrilling 30km trail running competition along the Garda Trek route, from the picturesque harbour of Torbole. It takes place on December 17th 2017 and you can find out how to apply here.

On the other hand, if Christmas for you is a time for relaxation rather than physical exertion, you’re in luck too. Garda Trentino are making it as easy as possible to get to all these different events this Christmas with a stress-free shuttle bus service. The Xmas Bus connects Santa’s House and the Taste Market in Riva del Garda to the Christmas markets in Arco and Canale di Tenno, ensuring you can appreciate all the festivities available in the area.

 

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