30.10.2025 - From golden leaves to twinkling lights

TICINO.CH/MEDIA
Ticino in transition: From Golden Leaves to
Twinkling Lights
Press release – October 30th, 2025
Ticino Turismo Via C. Ghiringhelli 7 T +41 91 825 70 56
Casella postale 1441 info@ticino.ch
CH–6501 Bellinzona ticino.ch

As autumn slowly gives way to the festive glow of Advent, Ticino celebrates the change of seasons with events
that stretch the warmth of the year a little longer. Between colourful foliage and the first lights of Christmas, the
southernmost canton of Switzerland invites visitors to slow down and rediscover its charm through art, markets,
and accessible experiences.
Culture Without Seasons: Villa Pia and the Erich Lindenberg Foundation
Just above Lugano, in Porza, Villa Pia stands as a vibrant cultural meeting place. Home to the Erich Lindenberg Art
Foundation, initiated by Mareen Koch and Udo Lindenberg, the museum preserves and promotes the legacy of the
German artist Erich Lindenberg (1938–2006). Its exhibitions span both his work and that of regional and international
artists. Until the 21 st of December 2025, visitors can explore the delicate graphic works of Aoi Huber Kono. Constantly
evolving, Villa Pia has become a lively crossroads for art, music, and research—an inspiring stop for anyone who loves
creativity in all its forms.
Fondazione d'Arte Erich Lindenberg – Museum Villa Pia
Winterland Locarno 2025/26: “At the Heart of Time”
From November 20 th , 2025 to January 6 th , 2026 Winterland Locarno returns to the city’s iconic Piazza Grande with
its enchanting theme “At the Heart of Time.” For seven weeks, Locarno becomes a festive stage: from the traditional
ice rink and gourmet corners (Fondue Chalet and Chinoise Igloo) to sparkling new attractions such as ice mini-golf,
a pop-up French bistro inside historic train carriages, a new ride and impressive light installations. With
sustainability in mind, visitors can take advantage of combined travel offers: SBB/RailAway provides up to 50% off
train travel from across Switzerland and Northern Italy, plus 30% off a Winterland Card.
Winterland
Christmas in the South: Markets and Magic in Mendrisiotto
In Mendrisiotto, Advent begins with the scent of cinnamon, roasted chestnuts and handmade crafts. From
November 23 rd to December 20 th , villages across the region host a series of widespread Christmas markets, glowing
with lights, music and the flavours of local tradition. Here, every square and alley tells a story: families, couples and
friends can discover handmade gifts, taste local delicacies and enjoy musical interludes in a warm, authentic
atmosphere. A highlight is “La Via degli Elfi” (The Elves’ Trail) in Rancate on November 29 th 2025, where more than
40 exhibitors transform the historic centre into a festive wonderland, with themed decorations and activities for all
ages. A full calendar with dates and locations is available online, a perfect guide for planning your southern Christmas
escape.
Christmas markets in the Mendrisiotto and Basso Ceresio region
La Via degli Elfi - Christmas Market
Accessible Switzerland: Bellinzona Opens Its Gates
Ticino is one of the featured stops on the Accessible Tour of Switzerland, a journey that celebrates inclusion by
making travel experiences open to everyone. Inspired by the renowned Grand Train Tour of Switzerland and
supported by the tour operator Claire & George, this itinerary allows visitors to experience Switzerland’s beauty
without barriers. One of its highlights is Bellinzona, whose UNESCO-listed fortifications have stood as World
Heritage icons for 25 years. The castles, partially accessible, offer a unique journey through history, an ideal blend
of discovery and inclusion. And with the Ticino Ticket, visitors enjoy free public transport across the canton and
discounts on cable cars, boats and attractions, making travel not just sustainable, but easy and enjoyable for all.
"Palms & Panorama" Accessible Tour of Switzerland
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Ticino Turismo Via C. Ghiringhelli 7 T +41 91 825 70 56
Casella postale 1441 info@ticino.ch
CH–6501 Bellinzona ticino.ch

TICINO TURISMO
Catharina Berni
Head of Communication
Tel: +41 91 821 53 24
catharina.berni@ticino.ch
Ticino Turismo Via C. Ghiringhelli 7 T +41 91 825 70 56
Casella postale 1441 info@ticino.ch
CH–6501 Bellinzona ticino.ch