La Befana (Epiphany) 2025 in Rome
Have you ever received a present from La Befana? Keep an eye out for the Italian female equivalent of Santa Claus!
Dates: January 5–January 6
Just like Santa Claus, La Befana is also a kind-hearted elderly lady who loves kids and brings them presents. Despite her love for children, the naughty ones only get coal. Unlike Father Christmas or Santa Claus, La Befana doesn't come on Christmas night but on Epiphany—between January 5 and 6 and never leaves Italy. If you want a present from la Befana, you must be obedient for the whole year and come to Italy during Epiphany.
Epiphany Celebration
Italians celebrate the Epiphany, or the folklore-inspired La Befana, on January 6. This national holiday marks the end of the Christmas season, with public offices closed across the country. Rooted in biblical tradition, the Epiphany commemorates the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Bethlehem, bearing gifts for Baby Jesus on the 12th day of Christmas. This dual celebration blends religious reverence with the charming folklore of La Befana, making it a unique and cherished event in Italy.
La Befana Character
The name La Befana derives from "Epifania," the Italian term for Epiphany. According to one legend, La Befana was a woman near Bethlehem who declined to accompany the Magi, later regretting her decision and wandering the world searching for Jesus, delivering gifts to children. Another tale describes her as a grieving mother who mistook Jesus for her lost son. After bringing him gifts, she was blessed as the mother of all Italian children.
La Befana, often depicted as a soot-covered older woman riding a broomstick, carries a sack of gifts for good children or coal for the naughty. Her tradition has roots in ancient pagan rituals of fertility and renewal, possibly linked to the Roman goddess Strenia or Celtic nature deities. Families honor her with wine and food, keeping alive a cherished piece of Italian folklore.
Popular Events
La Befana is celebrated across Italy with vibrant festivals, parades, bonfires, and bustling markets. A standout event takes place in Rome's Piazza Navona, where a festive market brims with sweets, toys, decorations, and Befana-themed treasures. On January 6, the legendary Befana herself traditionally appears at noon, delighting children with candy and small gifts until 2 pm, adding a magical touch to the celebrations.
Rome also celebrates the Epiphany with a unique parade. The Viva la Befana event made its return to Rome in 2024, starting at Via della Conciliazione and culminating in St. Peter's Square at 10 am, ahead of the Angelus with Pope Francis at midday.
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