Have you ever wondered what Christmas feels like in Italy?
Starting as early as December 8th, our town squares erupt into a Christmas wonderland, illuminated by dazzling holiday lights.
Family-owned markets emerge, selling homemade pastries, crafts, and wine.
(Pictured: the Christmas market in Milano)
Italian households assemble their presepe – an elaborate nativity scene depicting not just the holy family, but also bakers, shopkeepers and more (my traditional Neapolitan one even has a pizzaiolo.)
On the 24th, we celebrate La Vigilia. Families gather for a fish-based late-night meal before playing a board game called Tombola and perhaps attending the midnight Mass.
Lastly, we have our own Santa, too. On the night of January 5th, a witch named La Befana flies on her broomstick, leaving treats for good children and coal for the naughty.
That’s how Christmas is celebrated in Italy. I hope you enjoyed learning about our heritage.
We wish you a lovely Christmas, and a wonderful holiday with your family.
