Experiencing Christmas at Vatican City is both awe-inspiring and spiritually uplifting. Although the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are closed on December 25 and 26, St. Peter’s Square bursts into life with festive magic and beloved traditions. With a new Pope leading the celebrations this year, anticipation is sky-high for iconic events such as Christmas Eve Mass, the stunning nativity scene reveal, and the globally broadcasted Urbi et Orbi blessing. From gazing at the sparkling lights of the towering Christmas tree to joining heartfelt liturgical celebrations, Christmas at the Vatican strikes a beautiful balance between solemn reflection and festive cheer.
Is the Vatican City open during Christmas?
The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel close their doors on Christmas Day (December 25) and the Feast of St. Stephen (December 26), as part of the Vatican’s annual holiday closures. Keep in mind these closures also apply to most Sundays (except the last Sunday monthly), New Year's Day (January 1), and Epiphany on January 6. Pro tip: If your visit aligns with the last Sunday of the month (but not Christmas or St. Stephen’s Day itself), earlier arrivals can enjoy free entry into these world-famous attractions. Make sure you double-check your calendar!
Christmas at the Vatican: Key events & dates
December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception
- Marks the official kick-off to the holiday season.
- See the Pope paying homage at the Piazza di Spagna, offering flowers and prayers to a statue of the Virgin Mary.
December 9: Vatican Christmas Tree & Nativity Scene Reveal
- Watch St. Peter’s Square light up as the giant Christmas tree gets illuminated and the grand nativity scene (Presepe) is officially unveiled.
- Displays remain until January 7.
December 24: Christmas Eve
- Christmas Eve Mass: Join the Pope at the special mass at 7pm in St. Peter’s Basilica (tickets required—plan far ahead!)
- Opening of the Holy Door: As part of the Jubilee Year 2025, right after the Christmas Eve Mass, the Pope opens St. Peter's Holy Door—a powerful emblem of spiritual renewal. Passing through it offers a plenary indulgence of grace and forgiveness.
December 25: Christmas Day
- Don’t miss the Pope’s Christmas message and the Urbi et Orbi blessing (“to the city and the world”) from St. Peter's central balcony, broadcasting peace and goodwill globally. (No tickets required)
December 26: Feast of St. Stephen
- Witness an exceptional act of compassion as the Pope visits Rome's Rebibbia penitentiary for a special mass, where he'll open a fifth Holy Door, drawing attention and grace toward the marginalized.
December 31: New Year's Eve
- Celebrate the year's close by joining the Pope for First Vespers and the traditional singing of the “Te Deum” hymn of thanks at 5pm.
January 1: Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
- Welcome the New Year with a meaningful Papal Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica and participate in peace-themed reflections as part of the World Day of Peace. Another Holy Door at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major opens specially for the Jubilee.
January 6: Epiphany
- Cap your festive visit with the majestic Epiphany Mass, commemorating the Magi visiting baby Jesus—the formal end to Vatican City's holiday season.
Midnight Mass at St. Peter's Basilica
This is the most anticipated event of celebrating Christmas at Vatican. The Mass is usually scheduled to begin at 10pm Rome time and is broadcast live worldwide, drawing thousands of pilgrims and visitors to experience this sacred service. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ featuring the Papal homily, sacred music, and an atmosphere of reverence and joy. You'll need pre-approved tickets to be able to attend, especially for the main basilica. The Mass even includes the lighting of the Christmas Tree and Nativity scene in St. Peter's Square, as well as the Pope’s Christmas message and blessings to the global congregation.
How to attend Vatican Christmas events
Want to experience the Christmas Eve Midnight Mass first-hand? You need to secure tickets through the Prefecture of the Papal Household ideally 2–6 months in advance. Request them by mail, fax, or email, clearly stating your name, group size (recommended 2–6), and address. If approved, pick up your tickets from the Swiss Guard near the Bronze Doors 1–3 days before the event. Bring your confirmation letter without fail! Tickets run out quickly, so set reminders and apply early.
- Fax: +39 06 6988 5863
- Email: ordinanze@pontificalisdomus.va
Unique Vatican Christmas traditions you must know
- Enchanting Christmas concert: Catch memorable performances by celebrated international artists and choirs.
- Yule Log tradition: This is a symbolic ritual marking warmth and renewal, celebrated in Vatican City.
- The Legend of La Befana (January 6): Vatican City has its own folkloric Christmas character called 'La Befana', who leaves sweets for children in early January.
Nativity Scene spotlight: Celebrating peace and hope
In December 2024, Pope Francis unveiled a special nativity scene for the 2024–2025 Christmas season at the Vatican's Paul VI Hall. Crafted by Bethlehem-based Palestinian artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi, the scene notably shows baby Jesus resting on a Palestinian keffiyeh—a black-and-white checkered scarf. During the unveiling, Pope Francis emphasized a global call for peace and an end to conflicts, highlighting Bethlehem's ongoing struggles and advocating hope for worldwide reconciliation.
The Angelus prayer and Jubilee traditions
During Advent, the Pope leads the Angelus prayer every Sunday at noon, a practice commemorating the Incarnation. In 2024–2025, these prayers coincide with the Holy Year, characterized by additional rituals such as the opening of Holy Doors at major basilicas and penitential pilgrimages.
