Christmas in Val Gardena isn’t just about December 25th—it’s an entire festive season filled with traditions, nativity scenes, vibrant markets, and eagerly-awaited ski competitions. Throughout Advent, from Ortisei to Santa Cristina, Val Gardena becomes a magical valley of Christmas charm, hosting a packed calendar of joyful events.
While hotels in Ortisei, Selva Val Gardena, and Santa Cristina are always popular, the warmth and hospitality in Val Gardena truly shine during the Christmas and winter period. Expect an even more welcoming atmosphere, along with local festive dishes to savor.
Here are the highlights of Christmas in Val Gardena.
Ortisei Becomes the Christmas Village
The Christmas Market of Ortisei is renowned for its special atmosphere—Christmas melodies fill the air, homemade sweets tempt passersby, and handmade wooden crafts and festive lights delight the senses. Every stand showcases authentic, original products: carved wooden dolls, Christmas wreaths, lanterns, frames, candles, and felt items.
In Ortisei, during the entire Christmas period through Epiphany (as tradition says, “Epiphany takes all festivities away”), nativity scenes sculpted by Gardena artisans fill the streets. This area is legendary for its skilled woodcarving—local craftsmen have shared their art worldwide for generations, crafting both simple wooden objects and true masterpieces.
During advent, nativity enthusiasts can admire these works throughout the town, displayed in charming Alpine huts. A larger exhibition is hosted at the congress hall, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse as artisans demonstrate their craft.
This year, Val Gardena sculptors earned special global recognition, entering the Guinness World Records for creating the largest nativity scene in the world, showcased in Piazza Iman, Santa Cristina.
Visitors can also book exclusive tours led by members of the Wood Sculpture Producers’ Association. Don’t miss the magical performances in Val Gardena up until Christmas Eve: from mobile fanfare concerts playing local Christmas music to choirs, Alpine horn performances, and creative workshops introducing Ladin traditions.
Children will love posting their letters to Santa Claus at the special mailbox in Piazza Stetteneck—guaranteed to reach the North Pole!
Santa Cristina’s Christmas Market
This market offers a wide range of local crafts and gastronomy in a panoramic setting beneath Sassolungo and Castel Gardena. The festive atmosphere and unique gift ideas draw visitors every year.
There’s an array of Tyrolean specialties and holiday treats, like freshly baked gingerbread and “Spitzbuben” (apricot jam-filled shortbread cookies), available every weekend and weekday from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm. Master woodcarvers give live demonstrations while mountain music creates the perfect backdrop.
Once again, Val Gardena proves itself the “Valley of Christmas,” offering a schedule of events and activities dedicated to the most special time of the year.
Selva di Val Gardena and Mountain Christmas
Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites at the foot of the Sella Massif, Selva is the highest town in Val Gardena and sits along the legendary Sella Ronda ski circuit—offering over 500 km of slopes. Every year, the ski atmosphere moves right into the pedestrian center from December 2nd to January 8th, lit by a 350-metre string of lights and lined with 12 wooden cable car cabins, where guests can enjoy gingerbread, mulled wine, homemade cakes, artisan chocolate, or shop for unique Christmas gifts.
Glittering baubles and festive lights, together with carols, fill the village with warmth and cheer—delighting children and adding wonder to the holiday. You’ll also find a special nativity exhibition showcasing Gardena’s woodcarving artistry.
