From November 20, 2026, to January 10, 2027, the Christmas project organized by NXT Bergamo and Zambo Events returns. A large ice skating rink, an enchanted forest of light installations, a huge Christmas tree, three food stands offering sweet and savory treats, and a packed schedule of events including concerts, DJ sets, shows, and parties.
Christmas returns to light up Piazzale degli Alpini with “Bergamo On Ice & Star Garden,” a project organized in collaboration between NXT Bergamo and Zambo Events, scheduled from November 20, 2026, to January 10, 2027. This event will transform the heart of the city into a vast space dedicated to the magic of the holidays, featuring a completely revamped setup, a large ice skating rink, and an enchanting path winding through large-scale light installations, designed to recreate the atmosphere of a true enchanted forest.
Rounding out the scene will be a large Christmas tree—a symbol of the holidays and the centerpiece of the display—along with sets and decorations that will guide visitors on an immersive journey through Christmas lights and festive charm. There will also be an elevated viewing platform from which to admire the spectacle of the ice rink from above and take a souvenir photo. An experience designed for families, groups of friends, children, and visitors of all ages.
The star of the show will, of course, be the ice rink, which will be open for the entire duration of the event and is set to become one of the city’s Christmas landmarks. Next to the rink, the Star Garden will help create a festive atmosphere with three Christmas huts designed to satisfy every craving for sweet and savory treats: a place to enjoy a delicious break amid holiday specialties and flavors, complete with the classic mulled wine and hot chocolate.
The project will also feature a packed schedule of events thanks to Star Garden – Music & Events, the music and entertainment program that will entertain the public throughout the Christmas season. Over 25 events will liven up the spaces at NXT Bergamo, including live concerts, DJ sets, dance nights, performances, comedy shows, cultural gatherings, and themed parties. The events will take place throughout NXT, with some specifically scheduled in the Star Garden, to alternate genres and atmospheres and engage diverse audiences.
The schedule kicks off on Friday, November 20, with Country Night, followed on Saturday, November 21, by DiscoPianobar’s group karaoke, and on Sunday, November 22, by Swing Collective Night. Other November events include the tango night on November 25, the book presentation by Francesco Cicconetti, organized in collaboration with Sottovuoto Eventi; the Italian Blues River concert featuring special guest Roby Zonca; the 2000s-themed party hosted by What’s My Age Again; and the reading by Michele Pellegrini and Carlo Skizzo.
December will kick off with new tango events and stand-up comedy: for the latter, Roman comedian and popularizer Fill Pill will take the stage on December 10. The music lineup will range from Studio Inferno’s ’70s party to a live rockabilly performance by Dan e i suoi Fratelli, including country nights, the ’90s-themed party “Mai Dire 90,” and the international party “Born to Be 80’s.” There will also be plenty of live music events, such as a concert by the Alessandro Sipolo Trio, and evenings dedicated to dancing, including Swing Collective Nights and Christmas milongas. The calendar will also feature afternoon DJ sets, the Après-Ski Party, and the Rusty Brass marching band.
Special attention will be given to holiday events. On Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24, the “Ugly Christmas Sweater Party” will take center stage, in collaboration with Stupidera. On Christmas Day, Friday, December 25, the Star Garden will host the “Dickies Party Night,” dedicated to the sounds of the ’90s and 2000s. On Saturday, December 26, and Sunday, December 27, it’s time for NXTmas Night, a festival dedicated to rock ’n’ roll and rockabilly, while Tuesday, December 29, will feature the Milonga Christmas Night.
Rounding out the lineup will be the culinary offerings from NXT Bergamo, which will treat visitors to traditional cuisine and a series of events dedicated to local flavors throughout the festival. The festival calendar kicks off November 20–22 with the Risotto Festival, followed by the Gorgonzola, Taleggio & Boiled Meats Festival from November 27 to December 9. From December 10 to 20, the Polenta, Brasato & Stracotto Festival will take center stage, while from December 21 to January 7, the Cacio e Pepe, Carbonara & Amatriciana Festival will be held. Finally, from January 10 to 30, the Pizzoccheri & Sciatt Festival will take center stage. The restaurant will be open daily for lunch and Thursday through Sunday for dinner.
With “Bergamo On Ice & Star Garden,” NXT Bergamo and Zambo Events are presenting a project that combines attractions, cuisine, music, and entertainment, helping to bring the city to life throughout the holiday season. A place where you can ice skate, stroll among the light installations, admire the giant Christmas tree, take a break at the Christmas huts, watch a show, dance, listen to music, and share moments of togetherness.
Archive photo
