Riccione’s Coastal Christmas Celebration: A Winter Wonderland by the Sea

From November 24th, 2024, to January 24th, 2025, Riccione transforms into a captivating winter spectacle, blending maritime charm with artistic flair. “Riccione Christmas Sea” – a breathtaking artistic and scenic project – centers around water, showcasing its magical winter forms: liquid, solid, and vaporous. This aquatic theme, deeply connected to Riccione’s coastal identity, is the inaugural element in a year-long project celebrating the four elements: earth (spring), fire (summer), air (autumn), and water (winter), through captivating installations. Along Viale Ceccarini and Viale Dante, extending to the harbor, festive market stalls, the “Riccione Christmas Food Village,” ignite a culinary journey across Italy. Starting with Romagna’s classic piadina, this gastronomic adventure unfolds, tempting taste buds with Emilia’s tortellini, Marche’s crescia and ciauscolo, Tuscany’s lampredotto, Rome’s carbonara and porchetta, Puglia’s taralli and panzerotti, and finally, Naples’ irresistible graffe and sfogliatelle. Accompanying these delectable treats are local craft beers, sophisticated cocktails, vin brûlé, sweets, and roasted chestnuts. The Food Village is open weekdays (excluding Wednesdays) from 11 am to 8 pm, and weekends from 10:30 am to 10 pm. From December 20th to January 7th, daily hours extend to 10:30 am to 10 pm, with extended hours for Riccione Christmas Sea events. This gastronomic haven is presented by the Consorzio Viale Ceccarini, Associazione Riccione Alba, and Comitato Viale Dante. A unique ice-skating rink, the “Lungomare Ice Park,” transforms a section of Riccione’s seafront, reaching Piazzale Roma, into a magical winter wonderland. Families can enjoy this captivating experience amid the festive atmosphere. Operating hours vary: weekdays, 3 pm to 8 pm; Saturdays, 3 pm to 11 pm; Sundays, 10 am to 12:30 pm and 3 pm to 10 pm. Extended hours apply during holidays and peak seasons. Adding to Piazzale Roma’s enchanting atmosphere, the “Riviera Christmas View” – a magnificent Ferris wheel overlooking the Adriatic Sea – offers breathtaking panoramic views of the illuminated city and coastline. Weekday hours are 3 pm to 10 pm; weekends and holidays, 10 am to midnight; with extended hours from December 21st to January 6th and on December 8th. Adult tickets cost €10; children under 10, €7; and family passes are available. The “Santa Claus’s Oasis,” nestled in Piazzetta del Farolungo within the Riccione Shopping Wave, enchants with its maritime theme. Santa’s sleigh and marine-inspired lanterns create a magical setting. The sounds of waves and sea creatures enhance the ambiance, providing a captivating experience for children. The “Avenue of Bubbles,” an installation illuminating the harbor with glowing spheres, depicts water’s gaseous form. These luminous orbs create a dreamy atmosphere. A majestic illuminated Christmas tree, the “Xmas Tree,” stands proudly in the harbor, its reflection adding to the spectacle. Riccione’s cherished tradition, the Nativity scene on the historic Saviolina boat, seamlessly complements the water theme. The “H2O Arena” in Piazzale Ceccarini serves as the central hub for free events, hosting concerts and performances, transforming into a vibrant stage for festive celebrations. A diverse calendar of events includes exhibitions, concerts, theatrical performances, dance shows, and family activities. The program is continuously updated. Romagna a Tavola promotes the event; for specific inquiries, please contact the organizers.