Festa della Regina 2026

On 31 July 2026, the picturesque Botanical Garden of Villa Cipressi in Varenna will be illuminated for a new edition of the Festa della Regina, one of the most eagerly awaited summer events on Lake Como.

The history of the Festa della Regina

More than just a summer event, the Festa della Regina pays tribute to the history of Lake Como and its ties with the British world. The celebration and the Hotel Royal Victoria take their name from the young Princess Victoria of England, the future Queen, who in 1832, during her Grand Tour of Italy, stayed in Varenna, which she described as one of the most charming places she had visited during her journey.

Throughout the nineteenth century, historic villas and botanical gardens flourished across Italy and Europe, and Lake Como became one of the most famous and visited destinations.
The Queen’s Festival celebrates this heritage of history, culture and beauty, offering an experience that combines tradition, hospitality and entertainment.

An evening of fine dining, music and fireworks on Lake Como

This year’s theme, ‘Milleluci on Lake Como’, pays tribute to the elegance of 1970s and 1980s Italian variety shows, drawing inspiration from the iconic television programme ‘Milleluci’ and its unforgettable stars, Raffaella Carrà and Mina. An evening celebrating the timeless charm of Italian entertainment through stage design, live music, artistic performances and a glamorous atmosphere overlooking the lake.

The evening will begin at 7.30 pm with a welcome cocktail and buffet on the terraces of the Botanical Garden at Villa Cipressi. This will be followed by a dinner prepared by Executive Chef Francesco Sarno in the picturesque Piazza della Fontana, with Chef Filippo Oggioni of the Bianca Relais joining him this year to present a special live cooking station during the buffet.

After dinner, guests will be invited back to the gardens for the traditional grand dessert buffet, followed by a DJ set and a fireworks display over Lake Como, which has always been the most eagerly awaited moment of the Festa della Regina.

Entertainment will be provided by Bottega della Musica, a long-standing partner of the event, which will accompany the evening with shows and performances inspired by the theme.

31 July 2026
From 7.30 pm
Villa Cipressi Botanical Garden, Varenna
€180 per person

The event has limited capacity and is open both to guests staying at the group’s hotels and to the general public, subject to booking by emailing info@hotelvillacipressi.it