Festivals and Events
Lake Como is not only known for its stunning natural beauty but also for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting a wide variety of events and festivals throughout the year. From lively celebrations of local traditions to international music festivals and culinary delights.
Festivities Overview by Seasons
- Spring Spring brings a burst of color to Lake Como with flower festivals, outdoor concerts, and cultural events.
- Summer Summer is the peak season for events, with open-air concerts, boat races, food festivals, and fireworks displays lighting up the shores of the lake.
- Autumn Autumn offers a quieter atmosphere, with harvest festivals, wine tastings, and food events celebrating the region's local produce.
- Winter Winter brings festive Christmas markets, New Year's Eve celebrations, and winter sports events, offering a more serene, magical side of the lake with holiday lights, snowy peaks, and cozy gatherings.
Annual Events and Festivals
The region of Tremezzina includes several enchanting towns, offering a mix of lakeside beauty, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities.
- Festival della Cultura Held in Cernobbio, this cultural festival celebrates art, literature, and the performing arts, attracting artists and performers from around the world.
- Como Film Festival A highlight for film buffs, the Como Film Festival showcases independent films and international cinema in various venues around the city.
- Festival di Musica In the summer, the Festival di Musica in Bellagio presents classical music concerts set against the stunning backdrop of the lake.
- Lake Como International Music Festival This prestigious event draws musicians from all over the globe to perform in venues like villas and historic sites around the lake.
- Como Jazz Festival A major event for jazz lovers, this festival features performances from renowned local and international jazz artists.
- Lake Como Regatta One of the most important sailing events on the lake, attracting elite sailors to compete in various classes.
- Ironman 70.3 Lake Como A grueling triathlon event that takes place every year, attracting athletes from all over the world to compete in swimming, cycling, and running.
- Hiking & Cycling Events Throughout the year, various sporting events take place around Lake Como, including hiking races and cycling marathons, often showcasing the region's incredible mountain terrain.
- Sagra di San Giovanni A traditional food festival held in Lecco, where visitors can sample local specialties, such as polenta, risotto, and fresh fish from the lake.
- Como Wine Festival A festival dedicated to the region's fine wines, with tastings and events showcasing local vineyards.
Local Holidays and Traditions
- Festa di San Giovanni This local holiday, celebrated on June 24th, honors the patron saint of Como with parades, music, and fireworks. The most memorable moment is the beautiful display of fireworks over the lake.
- Festa della Madonna di Loreto Celebrated in Tremezzo every August 15th, this religious festival is marked by processions, music, and local dances, honoring the town's patron saint.
- Christmas Markets During the holiday season, the Christmas markets around the lake, especially in Como and Bellagio, bring festive cheer with local crafts, food stalls, and seasonal decorations, creating a magical atmosphere.
- La Fiera di Sant'Abbondio Held in Como each November 30th, this fair celebrates Saint Abundius, the patron saint of Como, with local food, music, and a festive atmosphere.
- Carnival Celebrations In February, the Carnival festivities bring colorful parades, traditional costumes, and lively street celebrations, especially in the towns of Como and Lecco, marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring.
Everything you need to know
Answers to the most frequently asked questions:
Some of the most popular festivals include the Sagra di San Giovanni in June, with fireworks over the lake, and the Como Città dei Balocchi, a magical Christmas festival with lights, markets, and activities.
The best time is from May to September, when the weather is perfect and many local festivals, concerts, and cultural events take place in towns around the lake.
Yes, Lake Como hosts several music and food festivals, like Lake Como International Music Festival and Street Food Festival events in Como and Lecco during summer.
Some larger events may require tickets, especially concerts or special boat tours, but many local celebrations and markets are free to attend.
Did You Know?
The Lake Como Regatta, a prestigious sailing event, has been held for over a century, attracting elite sailors and enthusiasts to compete in one of the most scenic and challenging settings in the world.
