Spending the Christmas holidays in western Sicily is the best way to escape the chaos of the city and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the festive season. This suggestive time of the year will allow you to savour every moment: natural beauties, cities of art, winter excursions… but with a little something extra!

Christmas in Sicily is an extraordinary experience. It is a vibrant time, during which every corner of the city is coloured with lights, decorations, nativity scenes and the streets prepare to be populated by the unmissable Christmas markets: an opportunity to breathe in local folklore, taste local delicacies and hunt for original gifts and handicrafts.

If what you want is to enjoy a unique view of the sea in winter and savour the flavours of tradition, then spending Christmas in the villages is definitely the right choice.

From 8 December to 6 January, Erice comes alive, transforming itself into EricèNatale – The village of nativity scenes.

An event that lights up the magic of the festive season in the village of Erice, placing the nativity scene and its message of rebirth at the heart of Christmas.

The entire community is involved in the initiative, creating real works of art from the nativity scene, made from a variety of materials (cork, wood, iron, ceramics) and displayed along the streets of the village, in churches and commercial establishments.

During this period, Erice comes to life thanks to the international festival of popular music and instruments “Bagpipes from the World“, travelling shows, concerts and exhibitions at cultural sites. Not forgetting the traditional little houses that host the Christmas markets in Piazza della Loggia and children’s favourite attraction: Santa’s house.

Walking through the heart of the historic centre you will be enveloped in the scent of mulled wine, Christmas lights and decorations, gift ideas and wonderful local handicrafts. Among the many attractions that western Sicily has to offer, the Christmas celebrations in the villages have everything you need, whether you want to organise a romantic break or spend a few days relaxing with the family!

Discover the full programme: EricèNatale 2021