Italians love the chance to have a celebration. While some of their celebrations are traditionally Italian, others are events influenced by festivities elsewhere in the world. Some celebrations have religious significance and others are purely about having a great time. Here are the top celebrations in Italy.
1. Christmas
Like in most predominantly Christian countries in the world, the celebrations for Christmas are extremely important. While religious beliefs are at the center of the festivities, it is also a time for spending with family and loved ones. Many traditions take place at this time of the year and plenty of public events take place.
2. Easter
Another important Christian celebration for the Italians is Easter. Traditions vary greatly from one region to the next in Italy. While the days leading up to Easter are quite somber affairs, Easter itself and Easter Monday are usually much more celebratory events.
3. The New Year
Along with most other countries in the world, Italy loves to hold huge celebrations for the new year. The major cities hold big public events, often including firework displays. Families hold parties to welcome in the new year with their loved ones.
4. Ferragosto
Ferragosto is an Italian national holiday celebrated on the 15th August each year. It is to mark Mary’s ascension into heaven to be with Jesus.
5. The Epiphany
Originally, the Epiphany on 6th January marked the birth of Jesus. This is no longer the case as it is now a celebration of the major events that influenced the life of Jesus in accordance to the bible. It is also the day that marks the end of the Christmas celebratory period.
6. Liberation Day
This day is celebrated on 25th April each year. It marks the liberation of Italy by allied troops during World War II. One way in which the Italians celebrate is to hold parades.
7. Labor Day
Traditionally, this is a national holiday for workers. However, it is also a day used by the political parties to protest a variety of causes. Usually, the day is full of celebration and runs without any problems. However, the day is very politically charged.
8. The Immaculate Conception
Religious events are very important to Christian Italians. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a Holy Day of Obligation and Italian believers will attend mass on this day. It commemorates the day that Mary was graced by God and is celebrated on 8th December.
9. Carnevale
The Carnevale is not just one event; it is a series of carnivals that take place throughout the year in Italy to mark various occasions. Two of these include the week prior to Easter and then a huge winter festival that takes place before Christmas. They are often very theatrical with celebrations including street parties and masquerade balls.
10. Festival of the Republic
On 2nd June 1946, the Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and become a republic. The Festival of the Republic marks the anniversary of this each year. One of the highlights of the celebrations is a parade of the Armed Forces.
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