Events & Festivals in Lake Como

Divers place a nativity scene on the lakebed near Cernobbio's shore. The figures sit underwater, visible from the waterfront promenade. Local families gather for this quiet, contemplative winter ritual. Worth seeing. The display usually stays submerged for the full month.

A polar plunge event held in the icy waters of Lake Como, usually on New Year's Day or early January. Participants, often in costume, take a brief swim followed by warm refreshments. It is a brave and lively spectacle for onlookers.

A traditional livestock and agricultural fair held in towns like Cernobbio or Lezzeno. While smaller than in the past, it still features local farmers, food stalls selling cured meats and cheeses, and sometimes blessing of animals.

One of Lombardy's oldest carnivals develops in the hills above Lake Como. Participants don elaborate wooden masks and costumes as 'Belli' and 'Brutti' (Beautiful and Ugly). The day includes a procession, satirical theater, and communal feasting. Plan for steep streets.

Como city hosts this traditional spring fair each year. Stalls line the streets with household goods, plants, local food, and crafts. Residents treat it as a practical market with festive undertones. It marks winter's end for locals.

This festival celebrates Lake Como's prized perch, rotating between lakeside towns annually. Local chefs serve the fish fried or with risotto, classic preparations done simply. The crowd is local and casual. Follow town announcements for the current location.

A gathering for fly fishing enthusiasts held in a town on Lake Como. It includes casting demonstrations, equipment exhibits, and talks by expert anglers. The focus is on the technique and conservation aspects of the sport.

Menaggio honors its patron saint with a religious procession carrying a historic cross from church to lakefront. A small market and food stalls fill the town square. Evening brings live music. The atmosphere is unpretentious and warm.

This international film festival screens movies in open-air venues across Lake Como: historic villas, gardens, and piazzas. The programming favors independent cinema and documentaries. The vibe is sophisticated without being stiff. Screenings feel special.

Como stages this medieval re-enactment each year. Events include a crossbow competition, flag-throwing performances, and a costumed parade through narrow streets. The procession ends at Baradello Castle. The whole city participates.

Classical and jazz concerts fill the cloisters, churches, and courtyards of historic buildings around Lake Como. The stone venues deliver exceptional acoustics. International musicians perform for intimate audiences. The settings are memorable.

Bellagio celebrates its patron saint with this traditional feast. The centerpiece is a nighttime boat procession: decorated vessels carry a statue of the saint across the lake, followed by fireworks overhead. The spectacle is moving.

Lake Como's unique rowing regatta features traditional 'Lucie' boats. Teams from lake communities race a course passing famous villas. The competition is serious. Local pride runs deep. Community support is visible everywhere.

Bellagio's month-long music festival presents opera, chamber music, and symphony concerts. Performances happen at Teatro Sociale and other atmospheric venues. Top international artists draw a knowledgeable audience. The programming is ambitious.

Lecco's summer centerpiece is this massive fireworks display synchronized to music over Lake Como. Barges and shoreline launch sites illuminate the mountains and water for nearly an hour. The scale is impressive. The setting is dramatic.

Based in Stresa on Lake Maggiore, this prestigious classical festival occasionally extends to Lake Como's northern end. Concerts happen in churches at Gravedona or Domaso. World-well-known orchestras and soloists perform. The quality is exceptional.

Como's largest street market dates back centuries. Hundreds of stalls selling antiques, local honey and cheese, clothing, and household goods overrun the city center. The scale is regional. Residents treat it as a serious shopping event.

A non-competitive cycling event where participants ride a marked route around Lake Como. Routes vary in distance to suit different abilities. It is a popular way for cycling enthusiasts to experience the lake's roads with minimal traffic.

A light art festival in Como, where video mappings, installations, and projections transform the city's monuments, fountains, and buildings. Artists use technology to create interactive displays that draw a mix of families and art lovers.

An autumn food fair in the hills above Lake Como celebrating chestnuts and honey. Local producers sell their goods, and food stalls offer roasted chestnuts, chestnut-based dishes, and honey tastings. It is a cozy, family-friendly harvest event.

A series of blues concerts held in clubs and small theaters around Lake Como, featuring both Italian and international blues artists. The atmosphere is informal and focused on the music, offering indoor entertainment as the weather cools.

An olive oil tasting event celebrating the new season's oil from Lake Como's groves. Local producers offer samples and sales, often paired with bread and other regional products. It is an informative event for food lovers.

Como's Christmas market, with wooden huts selling handicrafts, decorations, and seasonal foods like hot chocolate and roasted nuts. A merry-go-round and small ice rink are often set up, creating a festive atmosphere in the lead-up to Christmas.

A display of artistic nativity scenes set up in the old fishing huts along the port of Varenna. Each hut has a different, often elaborate, presepe created by local artists. It is a quiet, charming Christmas tradition.

A traditional New Year's Eve concert held in Como's Teatro Sociale. The program usually features popular opera arias and classical pieces performed by a regional orchestra and guest soloists. It is a formal, celebratory way to ring in the new year.