*The garrison public affairs office translates summaries of local news articles for the convenience of non-Italian speaking community members. The information contained in these summaries is originally written by Italian news sources and does not reflect the opinion of U.S. Army Garrison Italy or any of its tenant commands. Direct any questions about the Italian news to the garrison public affairs office.*
Italian News from Vicenza – December 5, 2025
Residents worry as high-speed rail work falls behind schedule – December 5, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Updates to the high-speed (TAV) rail construction schedule are raising concerns in the Ferrovieri neighborhood, where delays threaten to cut off residents from the rest of the city. The demolition of the Ferreto de Ferreti overpass is planned for the second half of 2027, but new crossings on Via Maganza and Via dell’ Arsenale are not expected to be ready until late 2028. Without alternatives, residents could face longer routes through the industrial zone and Viale Fusinato. Meanwhile, the tender for the “Fiera” stop has been postponed again, now to December 2025. Mayor Giacomo Possamai talks with the infrastructure ministry on the city’s eastern exit remain stalled. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Momentum builds for Valdastico Nord: €5B Vicenza–Brenner link – December 5, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Valdastico Nord (A31 extension) project gained momentum as Veneto’s new governor Alberto Stefani met Trentino president Maurizio Fugatti to establish a shared approach. Both leaders emphasized its strategic importance for easing traffic, boosting economy, and linking Veneto and Trentino more directly. The planned extension will connect Vicenza (Piovene Rocchette area) northwards into Trentino, ultimately linking with the A22 Brenner highway near Trento. Estimated at €5 billion, it promises faster connections, improved logistics and greater regional integration. Confindustria Vicenza applauded Stefani’s initiative, pledging full support. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Creazzo holiday festivities begin this weekend – December 5, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The holiday season in Creazzo kicks off this weekend and a full calendar of events leading up to Christmas, including music, concerts and the traditional market. The St. Nicholas festival continues through the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on Dec. 8. On Saturday, Dec. 13, at 8:45 p.m. the sports arena will host the “Christmas Notes” concert. From Dec. 13 through Jan. 11, 2026, visitors can tour nativity scenes in the hillside. A map of the displays will be available at the Church of St. Ulderico. On Sunday, Dec. 14, the traditional Christmas market returns to Town Hall Square and nearby Piazza San Marco from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with entertainment, concerts, crafts and gift ideas. On Dec. 21, visitors can vote for their favorite nativity scene at St. Ulderico from 3 to 7 p.m. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Vicenza Firefighters in crisis due to staff shortage, aging equipment – December 4, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Vicenza fire department faces severe staff shortages, outdated equipment, and inadequate facilities. Since July, there has been no provincial commander, and staffing levels fell short by 53 units compared to the required 289. Operational gaps include fewer deputy managers, inspectors, team leaders and drivers, while administrative staff shortages reach up to 100 percent in some roles. Vehicles average 20 years old, often breaking down, with repairs delayed due to scarce parts. Training is minimal, vacation days go unused, and safety risks rise as teams deploy below regulation levels. With the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics approaching, unions warn of dangerous consequences, yet funding and staffing increases remain absent. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Volunteer firefighters sustain Vicenza emergency response – December 4, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Volunteer firefighters play a vital role in the Vicenza province, where ordinary forces can take hours to arrive. Two detachments operate in Thiene and Recoaro. Thiene’s station has 40 volunteers, including 32 firefighters and eight squad leaders. In 2024, they handled 300 calls. A team is always on duty on weekends, with day and night coverage during the week. Recoaro’s detachment is made up of 33 members and performs about 100 interventions annually, mostly fires. Each December, volunteers mark the feast of Saint Barbara, patron saint of firefighters, with ceremonies that honor tradition and reinforce their bond with the community. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Vicenza’s 13,000 empty homes: from wasted space to social lifeline – December 4, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Vicenza Community Foundation has revealed that over 13,200 homes in the province, including 1,600 in the city, remain abandoned or unused. Of these, more than 5,200 larger dwellings could be repurposed for social projects. Even if just one percent of owners donated their properties, dozens of new facilities could be created to support vulnerable groups through social housing, meeting spaces and community services. A recent example shows how unused properties can be transformed into socio‑educational centers. With most vacant homes built before 1980 and many in poor energy classes, the Foundation urges donations to benefit both the community and property owners. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Creazzo puts municipal swimming pool up for sale – December 4, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The municipal swimming pool in Creazzo, once home to Olympic champion Thomas Ceccon, is set for sale. After the contract with a private manager ended last summer, no operator was found despite attempts at partnerships. Mayor Carmela Maresca and officials say the municipality cannot afford maintenance costs. A council-approved policy document begins the process, with a resolution expected in January so that the pool can reopen in summer. The Revenue Agency estimates the facility’s value at least three million euros. The sale notice will stress community use for citizens, schools and vulnerable groups. Proceeds will help maintain and improve other local sports facilities. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Carabinieri stress home security rules – December 3, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Vicenza’s Carabinieri are urging residents to take extra precautions against burglaries, which rise in winter evenings when homes are often empty. Basic steps remain crucial: never leave doors or windows open, install alarm systems linked to emergency services and keep cars locked without keys inside. Be careful about posting vacation photos on social media, which can tip off thieves. Other advice includes protecting outdoor light switches, keeping entrances well lit, simulating presence at home with timers for lights or TVs, and relying on vigilant neighbors to report suspicious activity. And finally, call 112 immediately if you notice anything unusual. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Stadio Menti: Curva Azzurra to reopen amid financial strains, parking woes – December 3, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Curva Azzurra at the Vicenza soccer stadium will reopen by January with a new gate and bathroom, adding 600 seats to increase support and ticket revenue. Renovation costs of €200,000, funded by the municipality, underscore financial strain: Vicenza pays €60,000 annually, while maintenance averages €200,000–€250,000, leaving yearly losses of about €150,000. The concession runs until June 2026, with a possible two‑year extension under review. Meanwhile, proposals for a new €50 million stadium remain stalled, and illegal parking during matches persists despite plans for better signage at Borgo Berga. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Handcrafted nativity scene in Calvene’s restored stable – December 3, VicenzaToday
From Dec. 8 to Jan. 18, 2026, the Maglio district Handcrafted Nativity Scene by Diego Pasin will be on display in Calvene. Constructed during a 17-year span, it recreates the village’s 1940s-50s historic center with handmade bricks and furnishings. The 60-square-meter exhibit is housed in a former stable on Via Roma. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is accessible to all. For information, contact Diego Pasin at 339-769-6893. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)
Vicenza case sets precedent: DUI laws apply to e-scooters – December 2, VicenzaToday
Italy’s Supreme Court has ruled that drunk driving laws apply to electric scooters. The decision stems from a Vicenza case in which a man, intoxicated above the legal limit, caused a crash while riding an e-scooter. Lower courts convicted him, and the Court of Cassation upheld the ruling, rejecting the defense’s claim that scooters are not “vehicles” and confirming that DUI laws now fully extend to scooter riders. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
High-speed rail work halts Brescia–Verona trains, affecting Vicenza – December 2, VicenzaToday
Rail service between Brescia and Verona Porta Nuova will be suspended from 5 a.m. Dec. 6 to 5 a.m. Dec. 8 as crews build the new Brescia–Padova high-speed line. Trenitalia will provide replacement buses, though trips will take longer and bicycles, scooters and pets will not be allowed, except service dogs. The shutdown will affect long-distance routes, which will skip stops in Brescia, Verona and Vicenza or be shortened. Eurocity trains to and from Switzerland will also bypass Veneto stations or end in Milan. Expect delays and crowded trips. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Campodalbero’s nativity trail lights up the holidays – December 2, VicenzaToday
From Dec. 1 to Jan. 31, 2026, Campodalbero in Crespadoro hosts the Sentiero dei Presepi, a 10‑kilometer mountain loop where nativity scenes appear among fountains, rocks, streams and woodlands. The free trail, with a 500‑meter elevation gain, takes about four hours to complete and is open around the clock. Proper gear is required, and visitors are advised not to start after 1 p.m. to avoid nightfall in the woods. The route can begin from the church, which offers the most convenient parking. Each Sunday in December, Contrà Bauci features a Christmas market with handmade goods, while food stands are available along the trail on weekends. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Arcugnano hosts festive holiday market and food Dec. 5 to 8 – December 2, VicenzaToday
From Dec. 5 to 8, Piazza Rumor in Arcugnano will become a festive Christmas village with markets, entertainment, workshops and food. The four‑day event is designed for families, children and visitors of all ages, featuring live music, themed games and holiday shows. Throughout the celebration, food stands run by the Alpini and Scout groups will serve traditional fare, including sandwiches, arrosticini, mulled wine and hot pasta dishes. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Camisano Vicentino market extends Sunday hours for Christmas Village – December 2, VicenzaToday
The Camisano Vicentino market will host a special Christmas edition on Sundays, Dec. 7, 14 and 21 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring over 200 stalls with clothing, household goods, food specialties and gift ideas, alongside shops open for festive shopping. Thousands of visitors are expected, drawn by the Christmas Village, nativity scenes and music. Events include hot chocolate and mulled wine at the Pro Loco hut every Sunday from Dec. 6 to Jan. 31, 2026, Santa’s House on Dec. 13, 14, 20 and 21 in Piazza Umberto I, and the “Let’s Sing Christmas” show with Luca and Salvo on Dec. 21. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Montecchio Maggiore opens holiday season with markets, tree lighting – December 2, VicenzaToday
Montecchio Maggiore launches the holiday season with Christmas markets in Piazza Marconi, highlighted by the eagerly awaited tree lighting on Dec. 6, accompanied by music, shows and festive activities. The program includes bubble and magic shows, fire performances, concerts and workshops for children. On Dec. 14, Sant’ Urbano hosts a market and concert, while the Priare caves transform into “La Vera Dimora di Babbo Natale,” offering guided tours of Santa’s magical home. The library enriches the festivities with storytelling sessions and Villa Cordellina showcases nativity scenes every Sunday. ASC Valdimolino also organizes tours of family nativity displays. Celebrations conclude Jan. 6, 2026, with “Arriva la Befana.” (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Recent Italian News highlights
Vicenza falls to 18th in Italy’s quality of life survey – December 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Out of 107 Italian provinces ranked in Il Sole 24 Ore’s 2024 “quality of life” survey, Vicenza has slipped 10 places to 18th, as Verona rises to seventh and Padua to nineth – both securing spots in the national top 10. The Vicenza province’s decline is driven by weak scores in “Culture and leisure,” where it fell 34 places to 68th, and “Justice and security,” down 23 places. It also lost ground in “Wealth and consumption” (–8), though “Business and work” improved (+23). Vicenza’s best result is second place nationally in the Litigation Index, but poor air quality and high layoffs weigh heavily. The contrast with Verona and Padua highlights Vicenza’s growing gap in culture, safety and sustainability. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Vicenza steps up fight against illegal dumping – December 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Vicenza has tripled fines for illegal waste dumping, issuing more than two citations a day in 2025. Police also report a growing problem of abandoned cars, with about 30 cases this year. Mayor Giacomo Possamai and local police officials said surveillance has expanded through hidden cameras, six new fixed cameras and plainclothes patrols. From July to November, officers issued 567 fines, compared with 212 in all of 2024. Penalties range from €100 for disorderly disposal to €450 for non-residents. Some violations, such as leaving bulky waste in public areas, are now falling under criminal law. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Speed cameras, 32 devices registered in the Vicenza province – December 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Ministry of Transport has published the official list of authorized speed detection devices nationwide. Only fines issued by cameras and laser guns on this list are valid; others can be appealed. In Vicenza province, 32 devices are registered, mostly mobile units (29). Three fixed cameras exist but remain inactive: two in Via Moro are currently inactive due to an ongoing investigation, and one in Bolzano Vicentino awaiting activation. Local police consortia across Vicenza declared telelasers and mobile systems, with the Northeast Vicenza consortium recording the highest number. The publication followed a national census requiring detailed technical data to ensure legitimacy of enforcement.
State Police expand YouPol app to trains to boost safety – December 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The State Police announced Dec. 1 that the YouPol app now extends to train passengers and stations, offering a fast, geolocated reporting system for risky situations, suspicious behavior, or critical issues. Users can send photos, videos, or short messages directly to Railway Police and police headquarters for immediate assessment and intervention. Since December 2024, YouPol has logged 46,877 general requests, 24,962 drug reports, 3,357 domestic violence cases and 3,648 bullying reports, mostly from northern and southern cities. Main users are aged 51–60 (100,000), followed by 18–30 (20,000) and minors (5,000). With 5,650 monthly anonymous reports, YouPol strengthens prevention and citizen-police collaboration. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Strikes to disrupt transport in December – December 1, Today.it
Italy’s largest union, CGIL, has called a nationwide strike for Friday, Dec. 12, to protest the government’s latest budget plan. Rail workers at Ferrovie dello Stato will strike from 12:01 a.m. to 9 p.m., with Trenitalia and Italo publishing updated lists of guaranteed trains. Bus, tram and metro service will also be affected, though disruptions will vary by region. A separate strike is set for Wednesday, Dec. 17, hitting air travel. From 1 to 5 p.m., air traffic controllers in Rome, ground staff at major airports, and crews from several airlines—including Ita Airways, Vueling, Air France and KLM—will stop work. Handling services such as check-in and boarding will also be disrupted. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Telepass restored, card payments coming soon in Vicenza parking – December 1, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Parking payments are slowly returning to normal in Vicenza. After days of cash-only transactions, Telepass has been reactivated in lots managed by Municipia Spa-Gestopark Srl. Card and debit payments remain unavailable but will resume in the coming days. The goal is to ensure smooth operations ahead of the next long weekend that will draw more visitors downtown. To ease congestion, Municipia staff have assisted drivers at the Fogazzaro lot. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
LR Vicenza secures winter crown – December 1, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Vicenza Soccer Team has crowned itself winter champion, closing the first half of the season at the top of the table. Fans celebrated with confidence, knowing Lane’s lead is secure regardless of Cittadella-Brescia’s outcome. In Sunday’s clash against Lecco, Gallo’s squad showed strength and composure, earning a decisive victory that reflects their remarkable campaign. Lecco remains at 12 points, while Brescia trails with 13 and one game in hand. The first half of the championship will officially conclude in January. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Unico Xmas Edition brings handmade market to Vicenza – December 1, VicenzaToday
Unico Xmas Edition returns to Vicenza Dec. 6–8, turning Piazza dei Signori into a showcase of handmade creativity. The three‑day market features independent artisans offering original clothing, jewelry, home décor, children’s accessories and wearable art. Organizers say the event highlights sustainable craftsmanship and unique gift ideas in a festive holiday atmosphere. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Gallio Christmas Market opens 27th edition Dec. 6 – December 1, VicenzaToday
The town center of Gallio is preparing to celebrate the holiday season with the 27th edition of the Christmas Market, the oldest on the Plateau of the Seven Municipalities. From Dec. 6 to Jan. 6, 2026, Piazza Italia and the new Piazza Giardini will be transformed into a welcoming holiday village filled with lights, music and the scents of winter. Visitors can stroll among traditional wooden chalets offering handmade crafts, gift ideas, local food specialties and warm drinks. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Viale Roma transformation will link station and historic center – November 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Viale Roma is being transformed into a pedestrian lane, with work scheduled to finish by February 2026. The project will create a wide walkway between the train station and Porta Castello, highlighted by a central white stone strip aligned with Giardino Salvi. Road space has been narrowed to seven meters for two lanes, while pedestrian areas will expand to nearly 14 meters. The redesign aims to connect the historic center with the station and provide space for markets and events. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Holiday fun: Polar Park brings 10,700 square feet of ice to Vicenza – November 26, VicenzaToday
Polar Park returns to Campo Marzo in Vicenza until Jan. 18, 2026, offering more than 10,700 square feet of covered ice, the largest indoor rink in northeastern Italy. The rink is accessible to people with disabilities through a special wheelchair. Events include Santa’s visit on Dec. 21, and a sweets’ shop open throughout the season. Tickets cost €13 with skate rental, €10 for children under 1.3 meters and €10 for those with their own skates. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Veneto’s Christmas markets sparkle from Verona to Jesolo – November 26, VicenzaToday
The most enchanting Christmas markets in the Veneto stretch from Lake Garda to the Adriatic coast. Verona’s Christkindlmarkt charms with its romantic setting, while Bardolino’s lakeside stalls and Ferris wheel offer stunning views. Asiago’s “Christmas Gardens” highlight mountain specialties in a unique atmosphere. Bassano del Grappa glows with festive lights near the iconic Ponte degli Alpini. Castelfranco Veneto creates a fairy-tale scene along its illuminated castle walls, and Jesolo amazes visitors with nativity displays crafted from ice, sand and stone. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Bussolengo hosts Italy’s largest indoor Christmas market – November 26, VicenzaToday
Bussolengo’s Christmas Village is Italy’s largest indoor holiday market, covering more than 7,000 square meters. Located near Verona and inspired by Bavarian villages, it features Santa’s house, a gnome workshop, an ice-skating rink and a wide array of artisan shops. The market offers a festive escape for families and visitors, even in bad weather. For more info, visit https://www.ilvillaggiodinatale.it (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Camping and drugs at the door: Americans concerned downtown – November 28, Il Giornale di Vicenza
In Vicenza’s historic center, coexistence has become strained as encampments linked to drug use spread under arcades and building entrances. Sheets, cardboard beds, trash and syringes litter sidewalks, while individuals settle in nightly after consuming drugs. Italian and American residents report growing unease: some avoid looking out their windows, others step carefully from their doors, and many no longer return home late to avoid encounters. What was once a choice to integrate into city life now feels unsustainable with Americans questioning high rents amid insecurity, dirt and noise. Residents believe conditions worsened after the red zone and Monte Berico raids. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Thanksgiving lunch: Italian dining staff strike at US bases – November 27, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Italian workers at the U.S. dining facilities on Ederle and Del Din bases went on strike during Thanksgiving lunch, protesting changes imposed by the American organization LRC. Since August, staff cleaning tables and utensils have been required to stay an extra unpaid half hour daily, a move unions Uiltucs and Fisascat Cisl denounce as unjustified. Employees already endure demanding conditions, working year‑round without benefits and tensions escalated with the introduction of time clocks, never before used. Around 50 workers joined the walkout, though the garrison command said the holiday meal served 2,000 people without disruption. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
The Pasubio Ossuary: where memory merges with history – November 26, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The “Fondazione 3 Novembre 1918” is preparing initiatives for the centenary of the Pasubio Memorial, to be celebrated next summer. Plans include permanent and temporary exhibitions in Vicenza; a commemorative stamp; concerts; a totem in member municipalities; school activities and a student competition on soldiers’ lives in the Great War. The Ossuary was inaugurated in 1926 to honor the memory of 5,146 Italian and Austrian soldiers. Professor Giuseppe Longo emphasized the Memorial as a living monument, teaching sacrifice, resilience, and values that inspire dialogue and civic unity. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Hospital bus service extended to ease parking crunch – November 24, Il Giornale di Vicenza
ULSS 8 will continue funding SVT to keep Line 30 buses running through San Bortolo Hospital. The service, launched in March, has boosted ridership and eases parking shortages. Alongside 13 new spaces for vehicles carrying people with disabilities and a wheelchair service at the hospital entrance, the bus stop inside the grounds has also increased use of the 542‑space Park Cricoli. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
The Blessed Claudio path between Treviso and Vicenza – November 23, Il Giornale di Vicenza
The Blessed Claudio Path is a 189‑kilometer spiritual and cultural route linking 25 municipalities from Santa Lucia di Piave to Chiampo, honoring the life and mission of Blessed Claudio. Inaugurated in 2018, the trail winds through the provinces of Treviso and Vicenza along peaceful secondary roads, inviting pilgrims and travelers to explore the Veneto foothills on foot or by bike. Created by the municipalities of Chiampo and Santa Lucia, the project promotes sustainable tourism and culminates at the Chiampo sanctuary, the spiritual heart of the journey. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)
Altopiano di Asiago to open ski season Dec. 8 – November 22, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Winter has arrived in the Altopiano di Asiago with fresh snow and more expected soon. Ski lifts will open Dec. 8, starting with the Le Melette area in Gallio, featuring music, a live radio broadcast at 11 a.m. and a DJ set at 2 p.m. Downhill resorts, cross-country centers and guides are preparing for visitors, from Campolongo in Rotzo to Asiago. All are eagerly awaiting more snow to greet skiers and snowshoers. (Summary by Angela Balbo)
Free bus against smog, the municipality tries again – November 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Vicenza is relaunching its incentive to leave cars at home by offering two months of free urban bus passes to residents who own highly polluting vehicles (Euro 0–2 petrol, LPG, methane; Euro 0–5 diesel; Euro 0–1 mopeds). Despite a €16,000 fund allocated last year, only 19 people participated, though six later purchased annual passes—an encouraging sign of shifting habits, says environmental coordinator Sara Baldinato. With the upcoming Brt metrobus expected to reshape mobility, the city hopes for greater interest. Starting Dec. 1, residents can again request free passes until funds—€14,441 remaining—run out. Applications are open until April 30, 2026. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
Creazzo recycling surges past 80 percent with new smart waste system – November 12, Il Giornale di Vicenza
Creazzo’s new waste collection system has proven highly effective, pushing recycling past 80 percent for the first time. In just eight months, the town cut dry waste by 48 percent—from over 493 to 332 tons, saving 160 tons from incineration. Wet waste rose by nine percent, plastic and cans by 17 percent, and green waste deliveries by 26 percent, while paper and cardboard remained stable. The new system uses chip-equipped bins for dry waste and street bins for wet waste. Starting in January, gray bins for diapers and incontinence aids and an eco-compactor for dry waste will be introduced. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)
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