What to do in December in Bologna, Modena and Parma

December is a month filled with festive atmosphere across Italy. City centres light up, Christmas trees appear in main squares, and seasonal markets and events bring a different rhythm to everyday life. If you find yourself in Emilia-Romagna during December, there are several traditions and experiences that are worth discovering.

This article focuses on what to do in December in Bologna, Modena, and Parma, offering a snapshot of seasonal highlights across the region.

Visit Bologna’s Fiera di Santa Lucia

“Antica Fiera di Santa Lucia, Bologna” by sdhaddow

December in Bologna is marked by a lively yet understated festive atmosphere. One of the city’s most enduring traditions is the Fiera di Santa Lucia, held under the porticoes of the Chiesa dei Servi. From late November until Christmas, small stalls line the arcade selling sweets, handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, and traditional crib figures.

The market is deeply rooted in local tradition and remains one of the most loved Christmas markets in Bologna. Visiting Santa Lucia is also a good excuse to explore the historic centre at a slower pace during the winter season.

For a broader overview of attractions and activities throughout the year, see our complete guide to things to do in Bologna.

Enjoy Traditional Zampone in Modena

Christmas in Emilia-Romagna is closely tied to food and long family meals. In Modena, one dish in particular defines the season: zampone. Made from pig’s trotter stuffed with seasoned ground pork and traditionally served with lentils, zampone is closely associated with both Christmas and New Year celebrations.

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A well-known place to try this dish is Ristorante Oreste, a historic restaurant near Modena’s Duomo. Long popular with locals and famously associated with Luciano Pavarotti, Oreste is known for classic Modenese cooking rather than modern reinterpretations. The atmosphere is informal, warm, and deeply traditional.

December is an excellent time to experience Modena beyond its famous food products, as the historic centre hosts lights, seasonal decorations, and small cultural events. You can explore more ideas in our guide to things to do in Modena.

Ring in the New Year in Parma

Parma offers a more elegant and formal way to close the year. One of the city’s most prestigious seasonal events is the traditional New Year’s Eve Gala at the Teatro Regio di Parma. The evening typically combines a classical concert with a gala dinner and celebratory atmosphere inside one of Italy’s most important opera houses.

This experience appeals particularly to visitors who enjoy music, refined settings, and a slower, more ceremonial way of welcoming the new year.

Beyond New Year celebrations, Parma remains a rewarding destination throughout December, with seasonal food, cultural events, and quieter streets compared to peak tourist months.

A Different Way to Experience Emilia-Romagna in December

These examples represent just a small selection of what Emilia-Romagna offers in December. While the region is often associated with spring and autumn travel, winter reveals a more local, authentic side of everyday life.

Visiting Bologna, Modena, and Parma during the festive season allows you to experience Italian traditions in a quieter, more intimate setting — one that rewards curiosity, good food, and unhurried exploration.