Christmas Market in Piazza Navona?
 

We went to the Piazza Navona today expecting to see the Christmas market and the only thing there was a few carnival game booths (not Christmas themed). I know it is the Feast of Immaculate Conception and the Pope was at the Spanish Steps - but ? We were there around 13:30. We're we too early?

It might get a little better in the evening but our experience was that it was more of a street fair. Closer to Christmas, you'll see the Prescepi (Nativity Scene) set up We were also expecting a German type Christmas market and were surprised last year.

The merchants proclaimed a "sit-in" [sic]today against the city government, who had reduced the number of stands that could be set up in the piazza. In fact, very few of them had even picked up their permits as of today. (I believe today was the official opening of the market.)

It's certainly not a Christmas market in the northern tradition, anyway. It's a Befana market, not a Christmas market. La Befana is a good witch who brings good little children some small gifts and treats on Epiphany (January 6th).

<i><font color=#555555>"It's a Befana market, not a Christmas market."</font></i>

I agree. Yes, some of the hanging witch dolls are cute and fun to photograph, but the market itself is so downscale. I never understood why so many tourists fuss over it. A lot of people have no taste and will praise anything that seems quaint and unique as long as it takes place in Italy. On well.

Well - that explains it. I thought it was pretty weak for any kind of market or fair. Bummer we missed it :( thanks!!