Ciao! With all the Christmas decorations up and the tree full & twinkly, we just cannot wait for all the festive fun times to begin! Did you know that in Italy, Christmas is an extended holiday and is celebrated for almost a month? Yes, Starting from December 8th - the Feast day of immaculate conception it is celebrated throughout the month and ends by January 6th, the 12th day of Christmas - Epiphany. If you are a true lover of this holiday, then you must experience an Italian Natale, because it's certainly like no other!
Every festival is made of beautiful traditions, Christmas in Italy is no different and is filled with usual + some unusual customs. We are sure you know all the usual ones, so, let’s uncover some unique Italian Christmas traditions today!
| No Meat on Christmas Eve |
On the 24th of December, La Vigilia is celebrated with all kinds of deliciousness except for meat. As per catholic tradition, the meat-free meal is meant to purify your body ahead of a religious day. So, Christmas eve in Italy is all about fantastic seafood delicacies. This tradition gives a reason to enjoy all the fabulousness that seafood has to offer, to the fullest! The main dishes prepped are - marinated anchovies/tuna, codfish served along with potatoes, seafood soup, mussels, shrimp and a lot of clams with pasta!
| Visit from - La Befana: The good Christmas witch |
Now we have all heard about Santa Claus, in fact, kids in every part of the world are super excited to meet him every year and tell him all about what they want this holiday season. But, in Italy, kids are even more excited about a visit from La Befana on the eve of the 5th of January. They leave out their shoes/socks to be filled with special chocolates by her - where, good kids get the pretty candies and coal-like candies are for naughty ones!
Folklore has it that, Befana was an old lady who wanted to bring gifts for baby Jesus but lost her way. Since then, she is trying to find her way to Bethlehem each year in January. It is believed that with her broom, she sweeps away all the negative energy.
A visit from - La Befana, for sure a unique affair you will find only in Italy!
| Traditional Desserts |
When we talk about Italian Natale, how can we not mention the amazing dolci that are famous worldwide! Yes, we are talking about the very own Italian sweets of the season - Panettone, Pandoro, Torrone and more! These are household recipes that are a must-have for Christmas celebrations. Try it once and you will not stop till you finish the entire cake, it is that delectable! The unique sweet bread, prepared especially during the holiday season is super soft, tasty, and ideally used to create unique holiday desserts.
Panettone is best served with a delicious spread, Pandoro can be used to create a lovely Christmas tree dessert or just add it all up in a basket and gift it to your near and dear ones!
At Casinetto, we source the best products Italy and Europe has to offer and bring them to your dinner table. Have a look at our Christmas specials + Christmas dinner collection to get everything you need this jolly season.
Buon Appettito