Christmas activity ideas for children in Milan

Milan, the fashion and cultural capital of Italy, offers a charming and magical atmosphere during the holiday season. When planning a visit to Milan with children during Christmas, there are plenty of delightful activities to keep them entertained. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, here are some fantastic Christmas activity ideas for children in Milan.

1. Visit Santa’s Village: Located at the center of Milan in Piazza Duomo, Santa’s Village is a must-visit for children during Christmas. Kids can explore the colorful Christmas market, ride the Ferris wheel, and even meet Santa Claus himself. The village is beautifully decorated, creating a magical atmosphere that children will love.

2. Ice Skating: Milan boasts several ice skating rinks during the winter months. Take your children to one of these rinks to experience the joy of gliding on ice. The spectacular backdrop of Christmas lights and decorations adds to the enchantment. The most popular rink is the Ice Villaggio Outlet at Porta Romana, where kids can have fun on the ice while parents enjoy some shopping.

3. Christmas at the Museums: Many museums in Milan organize special Christmas-themed activities and workshops for children. The Museo del Novecento, for example, offers Christmas art workshops where kids can create their own decorations. The Natural History Museum often hosts events like storytelling sessions with a Christmas twist. These activities provide an educational and entertaining experience for the little ones.

4. Christmas Markets: Milan is known for its elegant and enchanting Christmas markets. Take your children to markets like Oh Bej! Oh Bej! in Piazza Castello or the Navigli Christmas market. Here, kids can indulge in delicious treats like traditional sweets and hot chocolate, as well as find unique handmade gifts for their loved ones.

5. Christmas Lights Tour: Take your children on a tour to admire the stunning Christmas lights that illuminate the city. Start at Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and walk towards the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The grand Christmas tree at Piazza del Duomo is a sight to behold. Children will be mesmerized by the festive lights and decorations adorning the city’s streets.

6. Carol Singing: Christmas is the season of joyous songs. Encourage your children to participate in carol singing events held at various churches and squares in Milan. It’s a wonderful way for them to spread the Christmas spirit while having fun with other children.

7. Puppet Shows: Milan has a rich history of puppetry, and during Christmas, there are several puppet shows specially designed for children. From classic fairy tales to Santa-themed shows, these puppet performances will captivate your children’s imaginations and make for a delightful family outing.

8. Creative Workshops: Milan hosts numerous creative workshops during the holiday season, where children can engage in arts and crafts activities. From making Christmas cards to decorating cookies, these workshops allow children to unleash their creativity and make unique keepsakes.

9. Nativity Scenes: Take your children to see the exquisite nativity scenes, known as Presepi, displayed in churches and public squares across Milan. These scenes represent the birth of Jesus and are intricately crafted, capturing the religious essence of Christmas. It’s an opportunity for children to learn about religious traditions and appreciate the beauty of nativity scenes.

10. Christmas Movie Marathon: When the weather gets chilly, spend a cozy evening indoors with your children, watching classic Christmas movies. Snuggle up with blankets, hot chocolate, and some holiday-themed snacks for a memorable family movie night.

Milan offers a wide range of Christmas activities that will leave children with lasting memories. Whether it’s meeting Santa, ice skating, exploring the Christmas markets, or enjoying cultural performances, Milan is the perfect destination for a magical holiday experience for children.