La Befana / Epiphany

Saturday January 6th, 2007

Legend has it that on the 12th night of Christmas (January 5th) the three Wise Men on their search for the sacred infant asked La Befana, a kind old woman, to join them on their quest. However, she declined stating she had too much housework to do. Realizing she had made a mistake, the old woman ran out of her cottage to follow them but was unable to find them. Ever since, La Befana flies through the night sky on the eve of the Epiphany, delivering goodies to children, hoping one of them is the sacred infant. She stops at each child’s house to leave those who were good treats in their stockings and those who were naughty a lump of coal.

La Befana signifies the end of the seasonal celebrations, the transition into the New Year, and the connection between young and old. Join us as we celebrate this beloved Italian legend. La Befana has promised to stop by and bring stockings for everyone. 

Will she leave candy or coal in your stocking?