Pompeii is not just a city of art and culture, home to the largest UNESCO World Heritage Site in Italy.

It is also a city of events and entertainment. In fact, when you think of Pompeii, the image that immediately comes to mind is that of the ancient city buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D.

Yet, just a short walk from the archaeological site, there is a lively and welcoming modern city, offering a variety of experiences in every season. As Christmas approaches, the city center becomes an attractive destination for those who want to spend a day enjoying events, shopping, fine dining, spirituality, and culture.

This year, after a two-year hiatus, Christmas markets and events are finally returning, but that’s not all. The first event to kick off the pre-Christmas season will be Choco Italia – Artisan Chocolate Fair and Italian Sweets, a sweet event that this year is also full of surprises. Following that, December will begin with the start of the much-anticipated Christmas markets.

These are events open to everyone; admission is free. They cover not only the tourism sector but also food and wine, crafts, and the arts.

All events take place in Pompeii’s main square, right next to the Sanctuary and just a stone’s throw from the entrance to the Archaeological Site at Piazza Anfiteatro, right in the heart of the city.

A unique opportunity not only to visit Pompeii but also to take part in the many events organized by the city.

So, if you don’t want to miss the chance to experience a different side of Pompeii, stay up to date by following our guide!

Choco Pompei, Artisanal Chocolate Fair

Kicking off the pre-Christmas event season will be Choco Italia – Artisan Chocolate and Italian Sweets Fair, scheduled for November 12–15, 2026, in Piazza Bartolo Longo, in the heart of the city, across from the famous Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary.

The event, which is free to attend, is dedicated to the finest Italian confections, with master chocolatiers and pastry chefs from all over Italy presenting their specialties. Visitors can discover pralines, chocolate bars, cocoa creams, nougat, chocolates, and other regional specialties, along with traditional desserts and local products.

But this year, the event will also feature an initiative designed to engage children in particular. Inside the Chocolate Cultural Factory, children and teens will become real chocolatiers for a day; through hands-on workshops, they’ll discover how chocolate is made and will be able to create their own chocolate bar.

But that’s not all the event will also involve families, grandparents, and grandchildren with shows and plenty of fun to get everyone involved.

It’s the perfect event for anyone who loves food tastings, is looking for original gift ideas, or simply wants to treat themselves to a delicious stroll through the city center.

The Christmas markets begin on December 5

As December begins, the Christmas spirit really kicks into high gear. Among the events scheduled for 2026 are the Christmas Markets in Piazza Bartolo Longo, running from December 5 to 23.

The square, one of the most iconic spots in modern Pompeii, will come alive this year with new lights, colors, and activities for the most anticipated event of the year. The Christmas markets are, in fact, the perfect opportunity to find decorations, Christmas gift ideas, small handcrafted items, and products tied to the region’s culinary traditions.

This also presents the perfect opportunity for the many tourists who choose to visit the Pompeii ruins during Christmas to combine a variety of experiences without having to travel long distances.

The Christmas season offers a special opportunity to discover Pompeii beyond its archaeological fame. The Artisanal Chocolate Fair, the December markets, the Sanctuary, the shops, and the chance to visit the ruins make the city an appealing destination for a family outing, a cultural weekend, or a simple stroll through the traditions of Campania.

Where to Park in Pompeii During the Christmas Events

On weekends in December and in the days leading up to Christmas, the city center may experience increased traffic, especially in areas near the Sanctuary and the shopping streets. For this reason, it’s best to find a parking spot in advance and continue on foot.

For those wishing to reach Piazza Bartolo Longo and the modern city center, one option is the Santuario di Pompei parking lot at Piazza Bartolo Longo 1, which is particularly convenient due to its proximity to the square. The cost is €2 for the entire day.

Another equally affordable option is the parking lot at Piazza Falcone e Borsellino, which is slightly farther from the square, though not too far and can be easily reached on foot by taking Via Carlo Alberto.