The reason why Christmas is so special is that different countries get to have their own unique way of celebrating it. And that’s why today, we are going to look at the Christmas traditions in Italy.
First of all, the Italian word for Christmas is “Natale.” So, if you want to wish someone a Merry Christmas when in Italy, you have to say to that person, “Natale.” And after doing that, you’re all set to enjoy the rest of your Christmas holiday in Italy.
Italians during Christmas, eat a lot of foods, which can vary depending on the different areas. However, there is one product that you’re sure to find on every single Italian dining table during Christmas, and that is what they call “Panettone.” Panettone is a Christmas cake made from the combination of raisins and candy components that make it so delicious.
After Dinner Traditions
After dinner during Christmas eve, Italians usually play cards and bingo, which is locally known as “tombola.” And at midnight, of course, Santa Claus (Babbo Natale) would often bring them some presents, and toys to children. After Christmas, they have “Capodanno” which is a term used to describe New Year’s Eve feast.
During New Year’s Eve, Italians usually have dinner with their friends, and they always eat the same thing every single year. And what’s that food? Lentils, which is known in Italian as “Lenticchie.” So, if you are in Italy during New Year’s Eve, even if you don’t like lentils, you need to have a little taste of it because they believe that, lentils bring one good luck and money. And that, if you want to have more good luck, you need to wear something reddish, be it socks, underwear, whatever you want.
Also, Italians have another Christmas holiday on the 6th of January, which is often known as “La Befana.” La Befana is a witch, and like any other witch, she travels on a broom. The Italians believe that she is a good witch because she usually brings chocolate and candies to children. However, she would sometimes take a black color sweet to children that are naughty. Thus, parents use this to caution their kids from being stubborn during the Christmas period and beyond.
So there you have it, a quick rundown of some Italian Christmas traditions. If you’re opportune to spend your Christmas holiday there, you will indeed find it worthwhile because for one, Italians are hospitable and two, they have a lot of cuisines that you can choose from!
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