Cesenatico and its magical Christmas…

In Cesenatico, during the Christmas season, an open-air spectacle of lights, sounds, colors, and art comes to life — an unforgettable experience.

Admission to this enchanting event is free and open to everyone.

The stage of this show is the historic town center. Along the Leonardesque Porto Canale, the moored boats host the Maritime Nativity Scene, the only one of its kind in the world.

More than 50 life-size statues by renowned artists bring the characters of this unique outdoor nativity to life. It can be admired at any time of the day or night, but it is at dusk — when countless lights are lit — that it reaches its peak of beauty, leaving visitors speechless. The lights reflecting on the waters of the canal give the Maritime Nativity Scene the extraordinary charm it deserves.

The Maritime Nativity Scene, also known as the Floating Nativity, was created in 1986 from an idea by Guerrino Gardini and brought to life by artists Maurizio Bertoni and Mino Savadori, based on a design by Tinin Mantegazza. After the Holy Family and the Three Wise Men, the first statue added was Saint James, Patron Saint of Cesenatico. Since then, every year new statues have been added, reaching today over 50 figures. Many of them represent characters from the local seafaring tradition, such as the fisherman, the woman making piadina, and many more.

Every year, at the end of November or the beginning of December, the Maritime Nativity Scene is inaugurated with an opening ceremony featuring music and dance performances directly on the waters of the canal.

This year, the inauguration of the Maritime Nativity Scene and the lighting ceremony along the Porto Canale will take place on November 30, 2025.

Visitors will be able to enjoy its beauty until January 11, 2026.

But it’s not only about the Maritime Nativity… Cesenatico will also host Christmas Markets, events, and celebrations that will fill the whole town with a magical festive atmosphere.

And if you already love Cesenatico in the summer, we are sure that after seeing it during Christmas time, you will never want to say goodbye.

If you would like to visit Cesenatico in winter, you can stay with us at Hotel Aurelio.

Hotel Aurelio is located in the heart of the seaside area of Cesenatico, close to the historic center, just 400 meters from the Porto Canale and the famous Maritime Nativity Scene.

Spending your Christmas holidays with your family at Hotel Aurelio will be truly special, with the Porto Canale just a short walk away.

For the festive season, Hotel Aurelio has prepared exclusive All-Inclusive holiday packages.

Discover the Hotel Aurelio offers for Christmas and New Year in Cesenatico.

From December 23rd to January 4th, we look forward to welcoming you at Hotel Aurelio, near the historic center and Porto Canale.

Come and experience the magic of Christmas in Cesenatico with us.