The magic of sand Nativity scenes

The magic of Christmas lights up the sea in winter and tradition comes alive on the beach in Rimini with the giant sand nativity scene that can be admired on the free beach in Marina Centro (harbor area).

This year the sand nativity, which will be open to visitors until Jan. 11, 2026, promises to be the largest ever with an evocative Nativity just a stone's throw from the sea.

"Kolossal" is in fact the title of the 2025 edition, a monumental work of about 750 square meters entirely indoors, created by international sand artists from nations such as Spain, Turkey, Russia and Bulgaria, who have combined their mastery to create giant sculptural groups made with only sand and water and depicting biblical scenes, characters and architectural details of rare beauty.

Work that can be previewed as early as Saturday, Nov. 29 in 'live view' on the days of the sculptures' completion, with the sand artists at work showing the unique spectacle of "sand magic" taking shape.

Also kicking off in conjunction with the nativity scene, also in Boscovich Square, is the large Christmas Ice Village, which includes a craft market and a large all indoor ice skating rink where you can do tricks on skates.
The Happy Circus with its multicolored tent and children's shows will start on Saturday, December 6.