6
Jan
Befana is a friendly witch in Italian tradition who visits children on the night of January 5th, leaving gifts or candy in their stockings by the fireplace if they've been good, or a piece of coal if they've been naughty. According to the story, she rides on a broomstick, wearing a shawl, and carries a sack full of treats. Befana's visit is similar to Santa Claus at Christmas, but she comes on the night before January 6th, which is the Feast of the Epiphany, a holiday marking the end of the Christmas season in Italy.
How to celebrate Befana?
Start your day by wearing a pointy hat like a witch. Bake or buy a special cake called "Panettone" or "Pandoro" to share with family. Hang up colorful stockings by the fireplace or on your bedpost the night before. Remember to fill them with candies, chocolates, and small toys for everyone. Go outside and play games with friends, pretending to fly on a broom like Befana. In the evening, gather with your family around the table to enjoy a delicious Italian meal together. Share the sweets from the stockings and tell funny stories about Befana's adventures.
Where Befana is celebrated?
- - Italy
- - Switzerland
