Italian Christmas Traditions for Kids
In Italy the Christmas season encompasses three weeks, beginning eight days before the traditional Christmas Day celebrated in the United States. During this time Italians observe many traditions and rituals. Many of these traditions involve children as well as the adults. Merry Christmas in Italian is "Buon Natale." Does this Spark an idea?
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Before Christmas
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Christmas begins during the eight days prior to December 25, a period referred to as the Novena. Novena is a Roman-Catholic devotional period that lasts nine days. During this period, the local children, dressed as shepherds, go from home to home, singing, playing musical instruments, and reciting Christmas-themed poems. They receive donations for these performances, which they use to purchase Christmas presents.
The Urn of Fate
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Prior to Christmas Eve, adults observe a 24-hour fast. After this fast, everyone, including the children, partake of a special meal. This meal features chocolate and a cake called "panetoni." After this meal, adults and children alike participate in "Lucky Dip," a game that involves drawing from the Urn of Fate. The drawing results in each person receiving a gift. However, the gift could be an authentic gift, or an empty box. After this game, the adults light candles and the children recite poetry.
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Epiphany
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In Italy, most children do not receive gifts until January 6, known as Epiphany. The children set out shoes, similar to the U.S. tradition of hanging Christmas stockings. However, in Italy there is no Santa Claus. Instead, presents are delivered by Befana, a good witch who delivers gifts on a broomstick. If children are good, their shoes are filled with gifts when they awaken. If they were bad, they will find coal in their shoe.
Befana's Story
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According to Italian folklore, Befana was visited by the three wise men on their way to visit the baby Jesus. They stopped at her home to ask directions. She was so busy that she paid them no mind when they told her that the Savior had been born. Much later, after the wise men had left, Befana finally realized what she had heard. She was so distraught at the missed chance to help the wise men that she spends eternity making up for it by delivering presents to children.
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