Every week, Christmas in the square brings a bright atmosphere to downtown Lugano, spreading through stalls, food stalls, and initiatives that engage all generations. Following the release of the December 1st-7th calendar, the new program confirms a packed schedule of events, including art, music, and the Hockey Club Lugano on ice: events from December 8th-14th at Christmas in the Square. All this while Ciani Park continues to be lively with its ice skating rink and ice minigolf course, among the most popular spots for the event.
On the ice with Hockey Club Lugano
The most anticipated moment of the week will be Saturday, December 13th: from 14 to 16 p.m., Hockey Club Lugano players will take to the Ice Village rink to meet fans. This is a rare opportunity for spectators to skate alongside them, take photos, and enjoy a casual afternoon with the season's stars. This initiative, year after year, confirms the special bond between the team and the city.
The lighting of the submerged nativity scene
On Sunday, December 14th, at 5:00 PM, the Friends of the Submerged Nativity Scene will kick off one of the most evocative traditions of the season. The new edition of the Submerged Nativity Scene will be inaugurated in Rivetta Tell, with the statues placed in the lake and illuminated by the water. The figurine of Baby Jesus, transported by divers and decorated boats, will add a symbolic touch to a scene that over the years has become a beloved event for residents and visitors.
Proposals for a younger audience
The calendar is also enriched with activities designed for children and families.
On Monday 8 December, at 15pm, the FOCE Theatre will host Penny and the first snowflake by and with Marta Zotti: a story suitable for ages three and up, free admission and no reservations required.
At the Ideatorio in Cadro, on December 13th and 14th, the workshops held with Natale in Piazza will allow participants to create animated cards, combining manual skills and imagination (information: ideatorio.usi.ch ).
On December 14th at the Museo in Erba you will learn the art of gift wrapping, while for the little ones (2–3 years) there is a baby workshop dedicated to creative play (information: museoinerba.com ).
Also on December 14th, at 16 pm, the Teatro FOCE will host The Snow Queen – Final Battle , a performance by the Giallo Mare Minimal Teatro company, part of the Senza confini series curated by Teatro Pan and LAC edu. The 3D projections, technical scenography, and visual design multiply the layers of the Andersen-inspired narrative. Tickets available at luganolac.ch.
Music, live broadcasts and cultural initiatives
From Monday to Friday, between 17 and 19 pm, Chalet RSI will broadcast live from Piazza della Riforma, hosting Rete Uno's "Tempo Reale" and Rete Tre's "I Cialtroni": those passing by the square will be able to meet some of the public broadcaster's most famous voices live.
On December 8th and 14th, the churches of S. Antonio, S. Carlo, S. Maria degli Angioli, S. Rocco and dell'Immacolata will host A Christmas Carol , a musical journey in the form of short concerts dedicated to Christmas carols.
The USI Voices amateur choir will be performing on Thursday, December 11th in Piazza Cioccaro, at 18:30 pm, with a festive-themed repertoire.
In the Maghetti District, the group exhibition "Di stupore e di gioia" will open on Saturday, December 13th at 5:00 PM , followed by a public aperitif. The following day, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM, the same neighborhood will host a meeting with poets Francesca Auguadri, Roberto Bernasconi, Gilberto Isella, and Paola Laffranchini, who will lead a journey through words and poetry.
Also on Sunday, Piazza Rezzonico hosts “Piazza la Fondue,” a convivial event that brings the public together for a reasonably priced fondue, already sold out.
Markets, chalets and permanent activities
The Christmas Market will liven up Via Nassa, Piazzetta Maraini, Piazza Dante, and Via Luvini until December 23rd, while Piazza Manzoni hosts its own dedicated area until January 6th. The food stalls in Piazza della Riforma will continue with extended hours on weekends and holidays.
The ice skating rink and mini golf course at Parco Ciani will remain open until January 6th, with extended hours starting December 23rd, except for closures in case of bad weather.
The complete program of events is available on nataleinpiazza.ch , while further information on cultural and musical events can be found on luganoeventi.ch.
