December in Italy promises significant changes, with traditional festivals such as Feast of Sant'Ambrogio, in Milan, and the Christmas markets spread throughout the country.
In addition to the celebrations, the month brings important milestones, such as the deadline for paying the tax on second homes and expectations surrounding the 2025 national budget, which may include a new tax rate. 600 euros per applicant in Italian citizenship legal proceedings.
New Milan-Tokyo air route
From December 3rd, the new direct route of the Japanese airline ANA will come into operation, connecting Milan-Malpensa airport to Tokyo-Haneda airport.
Flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, offering greater convenience for travel between the two countries.
December festivities: tradition and holidays
Feast of Sant'Ambrogio
On December 7th, Milan celebrates its patron saint, Saint Ambrose, with masses, family celebrations and traditional biscuits. ambrosiani. The date, which symbolizes the beginning of the Christmas festivities in the city, will be marked by meetings and cultural events.
Festa della Immacolata Concezione
December 8th, dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, is national holiday in Italy. This year, the celebration falls on a Sunday, with no extra day off for workers. It is on this date that the main Italian cities turn on their Christmas lights, officially marking the beginning of the end-of-year festivities.
Christmas: decorations and markets
In December, Italian cities such as Greccio (Lazio) and Matera (Basilicata) become the stage for spectacular living nativity scenes (living nativity scenes), while the north of the country, such as Bolzano and Verona, stands out with its charming Christmas markets (Christmas markets).
The markets offer a variety of artisanal products, typical sweets and hot drinks such as mulled wine, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Strikes and transport
December will also be marked by stoppages in the transport sector:
- December 13: 24-hour general strike involving public transport, air and rail.
- December 15: New 24-hour strike, this time affecting air traffic control.
These dates may impact travel and movement within Italy.
Taxes and tax deadlines
IMU: Tax on second residence
December 16th is the deadline for payment of the second installment of the IMU (Single Municipal Tax), mandatory tax for owners of a second home in Italy.
Astronomical dates and climate
Winter Solstice
December 21 marks the official start of astronomical winter in the northern hemisphere and will be the shortest day of the year in Italy, with just 8,5 to 9,5 hours of sunlight, depending on the region.
Christmas and New Year Festivities
December 25th and 26th: Christmas and Saint Stephen's Day
The Christmas and St. Stephen's Day festivities, both national holidays, bring a lot of activity to the country's roads and train stations. Many Italian families take the opportunity to travel and get together, especially during Christmas week.
New Year (December 31): Capodanno
The New Year, known as New Year, will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 31. Among the Italian traditions are the consumption of lentils, to attract prosperity, and parties that bring together families and friends.
Political and economic deadlines
2025 National Budget
The Italian parliament has until December 31 to approve the 2025 budget, which includes a 30 billion euro package of public spending cuts and tax breaks for low-income families.
The Italian-Brazilian community is following with anticipation the approval of the “Budget Maneuver 2025”, which includes the proposal to introduce a new tax 600 euros per applicant in legal proceedings related to the recognition of Italian citizenship.
