Each year, as the festive cheer of Christmas fades and the New Year begins, Italy eagerly anticipates another beloved holiday. On the 6th of January, the nation celebrates Epiphany, known locally as ‘La Befana‘. Particularly in Rome, the capital pulses with vibrant traditions, and for tourists, it’s an opportunity to immerse in an authentic Italian experience.

The Legend of La Befana

The character ‘Befana’ is a kind-hearted witch, integral to Italy’s Epiphany celebrations. As legend goes, the Three Wise Men approached her during their journey to find Baby Jesus. Despite being invited, Befana declined. Later, realizing her mistake, she tried finding them, filling children’s stockings with gifts along the way. Today, she’s the symbol of goodwill and is celebrated with fervor.

Celebrating La Befana as a Tourist

1. Piazza Navona Festivities:
Rome’s historic Piazza Navona Christmas Market is a hub for La Befana celebrations. Stalls selling toys, sweets, and Befana figurines line the square. Musicians and performers entertain crowds, and there’s a delightful festive atmosphere.

2. Attend the Befana Parade:
Watch the grand parade where La Befana, often portrayed by a local woman, distributes candies and sweets to children. Various districts in Rome host these parades, making it a citywide celebration.

3. Shop for Befana Stockings:
Local stores and markets sell special Befana stockings. It’s traditional for children to hang them, hoping for gifts from the benevolent witch. As a tourist, it’s a unique souvenir to take back.

Traditions and Food

1. The Giving of Gifts:
While Santa Claus or ‘Babbo Natale’ visits Italian kids on Christmas, La Befana is the one who fills their stockings on Epiphany Eve. Good kids receive candies, while the naughty ones might find coal (often sweet coal called “carbone dolce”).

2. Culinary Delights:
The holiday brings a plethora of culinary treats. Indulge in “panettone” or “pandoro“, traditional Christmas cakes that Italians continue to enjoy until Epiphany. Also, try the “pinza“, a sweet bread from Rome made with dried fruits and nuts.

3. Befana Chants:
As you wander the streets, you might hear children singing traditional chants about La Befana. Engage with locals, and you might just learn a verse or two!

4. House Blessings:
Some locals perform a house blessing, marking their doorways with the year and initials of the Three Wise Men (Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar) using chalk. It’s a ritual invoking blessings for the home.