As someone who grew up without religion in a California beach town, I was intrigued when I moved to Italy by the length of the Christmas season and I was confused by some of the festivals. I learned that the season starts on December 8, with the Festival of the Immaculate Conception, and ends on January 6 with Epiphany.
I assumed the conception being referred to was the one in Mary’s womb.
Wrong.
It was the conception of Mary in the womb of her mother Saint Anne.
Any of you raised Catholic are probably thinking, Duh Chandi! But I admit, I had no idea about this or about what Epiphany was, (it commemorates the visit of the three wise men to infant Jesus) and I’d never heard of the Christmas season extending into January. More vacation is always a good thing though.
What can you expect on December 8 in Italy?
Wreath laying: in Rome a popular event is the pope placing a wreath at the column of the Immaculate Conception in Piazza Mignanelli.
Bonfires are a common rural tradition in central and southern regions, possibly related to the concept that fire eradicates sin.
Nativity Scene: In the village of Manarola in Liguria, the largest nativity scene in Italy (in the world?) turns on its 15,000 lights.
Tree Lighting: In Florence, where I live, the lofty tree in Piazza del Duomo is lit after the procession through the streets of flag throwers, drummers and pipers in Renaissance costume.
Experience it with me by video:
Are you wondering where to have the most magical Christmas Eve in Italy? My advice on that is here.
Awesome!!! I am definitely in the wrong country!! xx
Are there less signs of Christmas and less festivities where you are?
It is certainly a very festive scene, I love all the lights, especially the purple/blue ones. Lovely traditions with such deep roots.
Yes, it is one of the loveliest seasons in Florence!