by InTrieste
The festive spirit of the holiday season filled the streets of Trieste on Saturday as the city inaugurated its 101st San Nicolò Fair, a cherished tradition that draws thousands to the heart of this Adriatic city each year.
Stretching across the pedestrian zone from Largo Don Bonifacio to the bustling intersection of Viale XX Settembre and Via Domenico Rossetti, the fair combines history, culture, and community. With over 80 booths offering a variety of holiday goods, treats, and crafts, the event officially heralds the beginning of Advent for locals and visitors alike.
The highlight of the day was the arrival of Saint Nicholas of Myra, portrayed in traditional attire, alongside the lively Ongia Band. Both are set to return for another celebration on Saint Nicholas Day, December 6, bringing additional cheer to the city.
For families, the fair offers a special attraction: daily children’s entertainment featuring Saint Nicholas himself. Activities run from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 3 PM to 7 PM, ensuring that the youngest visitors can partake in the magic of the season.
The fair is more than just a marketplace. It’s a carefully coordinated event aimed at creating a safe and welcoming environment. Local police provide on-site support, while a team of trained personnel ensures public safety, fire prevention, and emergency management. The city has also partnered with AcegasApsAmga to maintain cleanliness, installing 75 waste bins across 15 eco-islands to keep the streets immaculate throughout the fair’s duration.
The San Nicolò Fair is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM and runs until December 8. Its continuation for over a century is a testament to Trieste’s deep-rooted traditions and the city’s enduring connection to its historical and cultural heritage.
As holiday lights illuminate Piazza Unità d’Italia and Christmas markets spring to life across the city, Trieste once again reaffirms its reputation as a vibrant winter destination, where the past and present converge in festive celebration.
