Tonight I’ll go to bed eagerly awaiting the return of La Befana.  It’s a tradition I’ve honored since my childhood.  The Epiphany marks the end of the 12 Days of Christmas and the night that La Befana brings treats and sweets.  La Befana used to fill my stocking with oranges and After Eight mints but as I’ve grown older, she’s started filling them with different things… usually household items or sensible things like socks and slippers.  But some years I miss the sweets and treats   Who knows what goodies she has in store for me this year.

The Story of La Befana

I’ve been hearing the story of La Befana since I was a baby.  My mother used to tell me the story every year.  A few years ago I got curious about her and Googled information.  Popular tradition holds that the Magi stopped at an old woman’s house on the last night of their journey, and asked her to accompany them when they set out the next morning.  She replied that she had things to do (clean the house is what my mother always told me) and so they set off without her.  When she was done her chores she changed her mind and tried to follow, but was unable to find either the Magi or Baby Jesus.  So she renews her search every year, visiting boys and girls the world over, and leaving those who have been good stockings full of candies and treats.

So auguri per La Befana!