In December, starting on Immaculate Conception Day, local cultural associations take care to decorate the whole town for the advent of Christmas. Handcrafted nativity scenes are displayed in different courtyards or in the most characteristic spots of Erice.
The municipality opens the doors of the rooms in which a miniature Erice is kept, which at Christmas time is transformed into a large mechanical nativity scene. Bagpipers from different regions and nations tour the streets performing in costume with their instruments, and performances, concerts and exhibitions are organized, as well as games and workshops for children.
For the past few years, the local merchants’ association, the Bajuolo, has been busy setting up a Santa Claus village and a hag’s house to cheer up these festive days.
Artisans and merchants display their original productions in little houses filled with lights and colors.
