
23 Dec Buon Natale!
Merry Christmas, dear students! May your holidays be filled with joy, laughter, and love. Here’s a video that will make you feel some Natale in Italia 🙂
See you after the break in Scuola AL DENTE!
Natale in Italia
Christmas in Italy: A Festive Affair
Christmas in Italy is a magical time. Italians celebrate with family, friends, and delicious food. The festive season begins on December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and culminates on January 6th, with the Epiphany.
Traditions and Customs The centerpiece of Italian Christmas celebrations is the presepe, or nativity scene. Families spend hours creating intricate displays depicting the birth of Jesus. Christmas trees are also popular. Italians decorate them with more traditional ornaments than their colorful counterparts in other countries.
On Christmas Eve, known as La Vigilia, Italians enjoy a hearty dinner featuring fish dishes such as baccalà (salt cod) or seafood. Messa di Mezzanotte follows: the Midnight Mass.
Food and drink
Food is an essential part of any Italian celebration, and Christmas is no exception. Traditional Christmas dishes vary from region to region, but some common favorites include:
- Panettone: A sweet bread filled with candied fruit and raisins.
- Pandoro: A buttery cake shaped like a star.
- Tortellini in brodo: Small, ring-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in broth.
- Lasagna: A rich, layered pasta dish made with meat, cheese, and tomato sauce.
The Epiphany The Epiphany, or Befana. Italians celebrate it on January 6th. According to Italian folklore, Befana is a kind witch who delivers gifts to children on this night. She is similar to Santa Claus, but she arrives on a broomstick and fills children’s stockings with candy and small toys.
Regional Variations Christmas traditions vary widely across Italy. In Naples, there is a strong tradition of puppet theater, and Christmas plays are performed in the streets. In Sicily, Christmas is celebrated with elaborate processions and fireworks displays.
A Time for Family Above all, Christmas in Italy is a time for family. Italians cherish the opportunity to spend time with loved ones, share meals, and exchange gifts. The festive atmosphere, combined with the delicious food and beautiful traditions, makes Christmas in Italy a truly unforgettable experience.