The lighting of the Christmas Tree in the Piazza is now a ritual for Parmesans that officially kicks off the beginning of the Holidays and, as per tradition, takes place on Immaculate Conception Day.
The children eagerly await this moment, and thousands of people gather in Piazza Garibaldi to witness the spectacle.
The long-awaited event is usually accompanied by the singing of the Parma Children’s Choir, and at the same time the lighting of the town’s streets takes place. For the occasion, the whole of Parma is dressed up for the occasion: store windows unleash the most appealing gift ideas, the scent of typical Christmas sweets can be smelled in the air, and the city’s main squares are filled with markets and packed with people who start exchanging their first wishes, making the atmosphere magical.
The holidays are officially coming to an end and the lofty fir tree will soon be extinguished, nevertheless its removal will still mark something beautiful: the beginning of a new and joyous year in the beautiful City of Parma!