The first December 2011 marks the launch of Turins festive season extravaganza which will last till the 15 January. The city illuminations include a series of 18 light installations by famous international artists, while the official city presepio  (Nativity scene), which takes the form of a gigantic Advert calendar, is a work of art by late Ligurian artist, Emanuele Luzzati, famous for his illustrations in childrens books.

A series of concerts and readings from texts of various religions are programmed twice a week in fourteen historic churches, as well as renaissance music in the old centre, concerts at the Christmas markets and improvised performances by circus acrobats and jugglers on the city trams.

The events also honour the 150 Anniversary of the Unification of Italy, in recognition of Turins historic role as the first capital before Florence and finally Rome. A revival of the customs of the time include the Merenda Reale (special teas served in the Caffè Reale with traditional biscuits and cakes, such as chifel e democratic and Garibaldi e parisien and the disnď lunch, the classic Sunday treat served in several of the characteristic taverns.

Art lovers have a unique opportunity to enjoy a free viewing of Michaelangelo drawing of a Madonna and Child, dated 1525, on loan from Florence and on show at Palazzo Madama until the 11 January.

New Years Eve will be heralded in by much loved Italian showman Renzo Arbore and his Italian Orchestra with a midnight toast in Piazza San Carlo along with Turins mayor. The festivities will close on Epiphany with the arrival of the Three Wise Men in solemn procession.

For information: www.comune.torino.it/natale