The nativity scene in Cesenatico is one of a kind.
Set up on the boats of the Floating Section of the Museo della Marineria, it is located in the oldest section of the Porto Canale redesigned by Leonardo Da Vinci and is set up on ten boats, with the characteristic decorations and bow "eyes".
The lights of the Presepe della Marineria and the Christmas tree will light up on Sunday December 1. The Nativity scene - which, created by the Municipality, will remain set up until January 12 - was conceived in 1986 and had as its first statues, after the Holy Family and the Magi, that of Saint Francis, patron saint of Italy, and Saint James, patron saint of Cesenatico.
Over the years, others have been added representing characters and "glimpses" of the life of the local seafaring community: the puppeteer with his theater, the fishermen, the “piadinara”, the accordion player, the angels and dolphins emerging from the water of Leonardo's canal port. In total, the nativity statues today are over fifty, carved in pine wood. Clothes are made of canvas and the voluminous draperies are obtained thanks to a layer of hot brushed wax. The result is of great effect and is made even more suggestive by the surrounding lights. Furthermore, every weekend, the Christmas market will be set up and various events will be organized with jugglers, acrobats, musical performances, art exhibitions and workshops.
New Year's Eve on the Port is another traditional holiday event in Cesenatico. The event includes a large live concert in Piazza Ciceruacchio.
