In Italy, Christmas traditions often extend over several weeks. Town squares, churches and homes display presepi, nativity scenes that range from a few figures to elaborate miniature villages. The scenes are a much-loved part of the season in many regions.
Families may gather for a special Christmas Eve meal and another celebration on Christmas Day. Recipes vary greatly from north to south and from one household to another. Panettone and pandoro are two festive sweet breads commonly shared during the holidays.
The season does not necessarily end on December 25. Epiphany on January 6 brings the story of La Befana, a kindly older woman in Italian folklore who visits children during the night before the holiday. Stockings may be filled with sweets, small gifts or a playful piece of candy “coal.”
Local customs make every Italian Christmas a little different. Visiting a town’s presepe or tasting a family recipe is often the best way to discover those differences.
