Celebrate the Epiphany in Italy with La Befana
Italy marks 6 January with a public holiday, concluding Rome’s festive season with the arrival of La Befana in Piazza Navona in the city’s historic center.
Join the magic starting at 10:30, as the witch-like character descends into the piazza from the belltower of the church of S. Agnese in Agone. Live music by the Italian fire brigade band sets the festive mood.
Watch a firefighter dressed as La Befana glide through the sky on a broomstick, sharing sweets with children below.
This family-friendly event signifies the end of the festive season in Rome and coincides with the closing day of the Christmas market in Piazza Navona.
On 6 January, Italy celebrates the Epiphany, commemorating the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Bethlehem with gifts for Baby Jesus. However, the folklore version of La Befana is equally beloved.
According to tradition, La Befana, a witch-like woman or “strega,” was invited by the wise men to join their journey but initially declined due to housework. She later attempted to find Jesus and, failing to do so, shared the toys with other children.
Despite Santa Claus’s modern presence, Italian children still eagerly await La Befana’s gifts on the night between 5 and 6 January, especially in central Italy and Rome where the tradition is most prominent.
Experience the magic with the Viva la Befana event in Rome on the same day, featuring costumed figures, camels, and horses between Via della Conciliazione and St Peter’s Square at 10:00.
For more information on the Befana event in Piazza Navona, visit the city website.
Photo credit: Only Fabrizio / Shutterstock.com.
