Christmas in Italy

Natassa Noussi

Traditions• The Christmas season lasts for 3 weeks in

Italy. It starts on December 17 to January 6.

• During this time children go from door to door reciting Christmas poems and singing.

• In Italy, children wait until January 6, Epiphany to open their presents.

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The children's presents are delivered by Befana, a kind ugly witch who rides on a broomstick.

Panettone is a traditional cake filled with candied fruit that is very popular during the holiday season.

Manger scenes and Christmas carols originated in Italy.

Traditions

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Christmas day is reserved for church, family, and feasting.

• Shepherds come into the town and go house-to-house playing the bagpipes and singing carols.

Traditions

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SOURCESwww.santas.net