How do people celebrate Christmas in Italy?

In Italy, Christmas is celebrated with a mix of deeply rooted traditions, culinary delights, and religious ceremonies that are unique in nature and vary from region to region. It officially begins with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th, a day that is observed throughout Italy and often coincides with the decorating of Christmas trees and the setting up of Presepi, the traditional nativity scenes.

The Advent season is marked by the Novenas – special prayers recited in the nine days leading up to Christmas. In many places, children go from house to house in groups, singing Christmas carols in anticipation of small rewards.

Christmas markets, airy and lively, create a festive atmosphere in many cities. Handicrafts, food, and mulled wine enchant visitors and bring them into the holiday spirit.

A central part of the Italian Christmas is the sumptuous feast. Christmas Eve, known as La Vigilia, is traditionally observed with a meatless menu where fish plays the main role – a nod to the Catholic tradition of fasting. Dishes like the famous Baccalà (salted codfish) or various seafood are served.

Christmas Day itself is celebrated with a lavish meal with family, often featuring traditional dishes like Tortellini in Brodo, stuffed pasta in broth, and various roasts. Panettone and Pandoro, sweet yeast breads, round off the meal and provide sweet delights.

In many Italian cities, December 26th, St. Stephen's Day, continues the festive feasting and family gatherings, rounding out the Christmas celebrations.

Midnight Masses in magnificent churches and cathedrals, often accompanied by classical music and choral singing, mark the religious highlight of the celebrations. The Vatican, with the Midnight Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, draws believers from all over the world.

A peculiarity in some Regions of Italy is the Befana, a kind-hearted witch who brings children sweets and gifts on the night of January 6th, similar to what Santa Claus does in other countries. Traditionally, she fills the stockings of children, which they have hung by chimneys or windows, with treats for the good and coal for the naughty.

Through this harmonious blend of religious customs, family gatherings, and regional traditions, Christmas in Italy becomes an unforgettable festival for all the senses.