Illustration of a marching band in red coats leading a night parade of lit floats along a main street (Arriva la Befana)

Arriva la Befana

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Genoa celebrates Epiphany with 'Arriva la Befana 2025,' a vibrant three-day festival from January 4th to 6th. Experience a historical procession of the Magi, a whimsical hot air balloon show, and the beloved Befana's descent. This event offers a unique blend of tradition, entertainment, and community spirit, perfect for all ages.

Map It Details Official site

Advertisement

Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

FREE

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

City Center

Featured Performers

  • Valentina Izzo
  • Filippo Pasini
  • Rogger Guerra
  • Paolo Vigo
  • Laura Peccenini
  • Coro Januenses Academici Cantores
  • Paganini Junior Chamber Orchestra
  • Filarmonica Pegliese
  • +2 more

Food & Drink

Candy offered by Fiva Confcommercio and Carrefour.

Going?

Location

Various locations in Genoa · Genoa Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, cultural enthusiasts, tradition lovers

Vibe

Festive, traditional, community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early for the processions and street performances, especially for the 'Corteo dei Magi' and 'Les Mongolfieres,' as popular viewing spots fill up quickly.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking between various event locations in the city center.
  • Check the specific start times and locations for each of the three Magi processions on January 4th to plan your route effectively.
  • Consider bringing a small bag for any treats or small items you might receive, especially during the Befana's descent.
  • The 'Rigiocattolo' market on January 5th is a great opportunity to find unique toys while supporting a good cause for children in Africa.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Corteo dei Magi with 85 costumed figures
  • 'Les Mongolfieres' street performance
  • 'Rigiocattolo' charity toy market
  • Befana's descent from fire truck ladder
  • 'Chiese in musica' concert series

Links & Contact

Run by Comune di Genova

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main events during Arriva la Befana 2025?

The main events include the Corteo dei Magi (procession of the Magi) on January 4th, 'Les Mongolfieres' (hot air balloon show) and 'Rigiocattolo' market on January 5th, and the Befana's descent from the fire truck ladder on January 6th.

Are there any costs associated with attending these events?

Most of the events, including the processions, street performances, and the Befana's descent, are free to attend. The 'Rigiocattolo' market involves purchasing used toys.

Where do the events take place?

Events are spread across various central locations in Genoa, including Piazza Matteotti, Piazza De Ferrari, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and specific churches like San Marco al Molo and San Filippo Neri.

What is the 'Rigiocattolo' event?

'Rigiocattolo' is a market of used toys organized by Giovani per la Pace on January 5th. Proceeds from the sales are used to fund healthcare and food for children in Africa through the Dream program.

Are there any musical performances?

Yes, there are musical performances as part of the 'Chiese in musica' series on January 4th and 5th in churches like San Marco al Molo and San Donato, featuring various choirs and orchestras.

Browse Christmas in Genoa

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last checked: