Christmas is one of the most beautiful times to be in Italy. The whole country lights up with Christmas trees, lights and decorations, making it impossible for you not to immerse yourself in the Holiday spirit!
If you want to celebrate like a local this year, you’re in the right place! Here are some Italian Christmas traditions!
– Visiting the Vatican during Christmas time –
When do the Holidays begin and end?
Christmas Holidays in Italy traditionally begin on the 8th of December with the day of the Immaculate Conception. During this day, Italian families usually set up their Christmas trees and decorations. These decorations get taken down on the 6th of January, the day of the Epiphany. This day officially marks the end of the Holidays. There’s also a popular saying in Italy that goes: “L’Epifania, tutte le feste porta via” which means that the Epiphany takes away all the Holidays.
Nativity scenes
Nativity scenes, known in Italy as “Presepi” are very common. Every family sets up their presepe with their Christmas decorations, leaving baby Jesus out of the nativity scene up until the 25th of December. They’re usually made of wood or terracotta and all through Italy there are many exhibitions of handcrafted nativity scenes made by artisans all over the world!
Christmas Eve Feast
On Christmas Eve, families and friends usually gather around the table to eat a very big dinner, referred to as “cenone” in Italy. According to tradition, Christmas Eve should be seafood-based. A meat-free meal to purify your body. The kinds of foods that get served on Christmas Eve vary from each region but some of the most popular ones are:
- Baccalà;
- Mussels Soup;
- Clams Risotto;
Keep in mind that not all families go with traditions and serve meat-free dishes on Christmas Eve!
Christmas Feast
The following day, Italian families continue eating by making a very big Christmas lunch. This lunch is usually up to 12 servings and lasts lots of hours so… get ready!
Here’s an example of a typical Christmas lunch menu:
- Antipasti with cheese and cold cuts;
- Tortellini in Brodo – Lasagna – Minestra Maritata – Pasta al Forno and many more main dishes;
- Baccalà – Abbacchio – Cappone – Capitone, as second courses;
- Insalata russa – Insalata di Rinforzo – Broccoli di Natale, served as a side to the second courses;
- Struffoli – Pandoro – Panettone – Torrone – Mustaccioli – Roccocò and many more desserts!
So, the Christmas Day menu will surely keep you stuffed for a long time!
Exchanging Gifts
Of course, exchanging gifts between family and friends is one of the best parts of Christmas. With young kids still believing in Santa Claus, it’s common in Italy for adults to set up little scenes to make kids believe that Santa is bringing them gifts.
For older people exchanging gifts is a way to bring people together and celebrate friendships.
