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The Blessing of Animals in Rome: the Feast of St. Anthony the Abbot
Every January 17, pets and farm animals gather near Rome's historic churches for a blessing — one of the city's most unexpected winter traditions.
Carmentalia: an ancient Roman festival of birth, prophecy and new beginnings
Jan 15, 2026 · 4 min read
La Befana in Italy: Epiphany traditions, folklore and festivities
Jan 6, 2026 · 3 min read
New Year's Day in Rome: The Plunge into the Tiber Tradition
Jan 2, 2026 · 2 min read
Latest articles 🎈
The Blessing of Animals in Rome: the Feast of St. Anthony the Abbot
Every January 17, pets and farm animals gather near Rome's historic churches for a blessing — one of the city's most unexpected winter traditions.
Carmentalia: an ancient Roman festival of birth, prophecy and new beginnings
Long before Saturnalia's December parties, the Romans held the Carmentalia in January — a festival honoring Carmenta, goddess of prophecy and motherhood.
La Befana in Italy: Epiphany traditions, folklore and festivities
Stockings filled with sweets hang from balconies every January 6 — meet La Befana, the folklore figure behind one of Italy's best-loved Christmas traditions.
New Year's Day in Rome: The Plunge into the Tiber Tradition
While most of Rome sleeps in on January 1st, a small group of divers gather at Ponte Cavour to take an icy midday plunge into the Tiber.
Panettone vs Pandoro: Italy's Christmas cake debate
It's the question every visitor gets asked in December: panettone or pandoro? We break down the story and rivalry behind Italy's two iconic Christmas cakes.
Christmas Eve Dinner in Italy: food, family and tradition
La Vigilia — Italy's unhurried Christmas Eve dinner — brings families to the table for hours before midnight. Here's what's actually on the menu.