What does Buona Befana mean?

In Italian folklore, the Befana (pronounced [beˈfaːna]) is an old woman who delivers gifts to children throughout Italy on Epiphany Eve (the night of January 5) in a similar way to Santa Claus or the Three Magi Kings.

What do they say on La Befana?

viva, viva, la Befana! Translated, the above poem reads “The Befana comes at night / In worn out shoes / Dressed like a Roman / Long live the Befana!” La Befana is often depicted as an old lady riding a broomstick, covered in soot and wearing a black shawl.

How do you celebrate Befana?

In Italy, good children receive gifts not only on Christmas, but also on January 6th, in celebration of the Epiphany. Usually candies and small toys, these are whimsically said to be brought by La Befana, a kindly witch riding a broomstick. For naughty children she leaves just a lump of coal.

What is the 7 Fishes tradition?

The Feast of the Seven Fishes is the annual Christmas Eve vigil and epic seafood feast that has grown into the most beloved meal of the year in Italian-American households. Steeped in tradition, the Feast of the Seven Fishes is the centerpiece meal of the entire holiday season.

Why does La Befana hold a broomstick?

Just a short time after Christmas, on the 6th January, there’s La Befana. The strange idea behind it is that on the Epiphany eve, an old witch hops on her broom to deliver sweets to children, meaning they wake up on the 6th to find a stocking full of goodies. Naughty children however will find only coal left behind!

What does Benevento mean in Italian?

welcome
habitational or regional name from the city or province of Benevento in southwestern Italy. from the personal name Benevento, an omen name meaning ‘welcome’.

What is Benevento famous for?

The Arch of Trajan The importance of Benevento in classical times is vouched for by the many remains of antiquity which it possesses, of which the most famous is the triumphal arch erected in honour of Trajan by the senate and people of Rome in 114, with important reliefs relating to its history.

What do you leave out for Befana?

Being a nice old witch (albeit not much to look at), La Befana is also said to sweep the floor for you. You in exchange are required to leave out a little glass of wine for her, which seems only fair really. La Befana is said to have been doing her housework when the 3 Wisemen passed by her house.