From the Jubilee to exhibitions, festivals and local traditions, January in Italy offers plenty of reasons to explore – even after the Christmas festivities have ended. The first month of the year may be low season across much of the country (except for ski resorts and Epiphany celebrations), making it the perfect time to visit art cities with fewer crowds, enjoy major exhibitions, or take part in unique experiences. Here’s your guide to what’s happening in Italy in January 2026.
Closing of the 2025 Jubilee, Rome
2025 was the year of the Ordinary Jubilee, and Rome will see its grand finale at the turn of the year. All the major basilicas will host celebrations, culminating in the closure of the Holy Doors.
On 6 January 2026, for the Epiphany celebrations, the Holy Door of St Peter’s will be closed, followed by a Mass starting at 9:30 am. After this, the next Jubilee won’t arrive until 2033 – making this a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Vini Migranti, Florence
Wine lovers, take note: Vini Migranti in Florence is a must-visit. This festival celebrates “wandering wines” – independent producers, experimental winemakers, and brands focused on sustainability and cultural exchange.
The event runs on 25 and 26 January, from 11 am to 7 pm and 10 am to 6 pm, respectively, at the Manifattura Tabacchi, Porta al Prato. Tickets cost around €25. It’s the perfect chance to discover unique labels you won’t find anywhere else.
Steve McCurry. Distant Horizons, Parma
Photography enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Steve McCurry. Distant Horizons in Parma. Known worldwide for iconic images like the “Afghan Girl”, McCurry’s work spans Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas.
The exhibition is open from 22 November 2025 until 12 April 2026 at Palazzo Pigorini, featuring his most famous works alongside dozens of photographs taken over a forty-year career.
Festa delle Farchie, Fara Filiorum Petri
For a truly unique cultural experience, head to the Festa delle Farchie in Fara Filiorum Petri, Chieti, on 16 January. This centuries-old fire ritual honours Saint Anthony the Abbot.
The “farchie” are massive cylindrical torches, some over 10 metres tall, made from bundles of reeds. Each district carries its torch in a procession before lighting them in the main square at dusk. Watching dozens of these torches blaze against the winter night sky is an unforgettable spectacle.
Dolomiti Balloon Festival, Dobbiaco
For something magical, the Dolomiti Balloon Festival in Dobbiaco, South Tyrol, is hard to beat. Picture dozens of colourful hot-air balloons drifting across the snow-capped Dolomites.
From 6 to 11 January, enjoy balloon flights, activities for children, and on 9 January, the Nightglow event, when the balloons light up the night sky in San Candido.
Milan Men’s Fashion Week 2026
Fashion aficionados can look forward to Milan Men’s Fashion Week from 16 to 20 January 2026, when the city becomes a hub for international style. The Autumn/Winter 2026/27 collections will be presented through catwalks, events, and presentations organised by the National Chamber of Italian Fashion.
Expect the return of major Italian houses, special guests such as Ralph Lauren, and debut appearances from emerging designers, alongside celebrations and anniversaries you won’t want to miss.
