Unique traditions and customs brighten Italy’s holiday season, starting with the celebration of Santa Lucia on December 13. Italian towns and cities come alive with the glow of candles and festive spirit. And, while many associate Santa Lucia with Sweden, she was, indeed, Italian.
Who was Santa Lucia?
Lucia was born into a wealthy family in Siracusa, Sicilia, in the late fourth century. After the death of Lucia’s father, her mother arranged a marriage between the girl and a pagan man. Lucia, however, wanted to dedicate her life to Christ and vowed to remain a virgin.
She used her dowry to buy food to the poor and to Christians who hid in catacombs. According to legend, Lucia wore a wreath of candles on her head and used a donkey to carry provisions. The candles both lit her way and left her hands free to distribute food and aid to those in need.
Upset at being rejected, Lucia’s suitor reported her to Roman authorities for being a Christian. The Roman prefect ordered her arrest, and after her refusal to denounce Christ, they tortured and eventually martyred her.
La Festa di Santa Lucia
The Festa di Santa Lucia coincides with the ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia which marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter. The association with light and the winter solstice is evident, as Romans believed that light would conquer the dark days ahead.
Santa Lucia’s name itself means “light, and her feast day emphasizes themes of light, hope, and generosity. Families light candles in her honor symbolizing light overcoming darkness and illuminating the path toward the joyous days of Christmas.
Traditions Surrounding Santa Lucia
Throughout Italy, Italians honor Santa Lucia as part of their Advent celebrations. On December 13, families gather to share delicious foods, light candles, and remember the spirit of giving.
In Northern Italian cities, children eagerly anticipate the arrival of Santa Lucia and Gastaldo, her donkey. On the evening of December 12, children leave their shoes out in anticipation of gifts Santa Lucia will bring. Much as American children leave treats for Santa and Rudolph, Italian children leave wine for Lucia and hay for Gastaldo.
In the south and Sicily, food plays a pivotal role in Festa di Santa Lucia celebrations. They focus on simple, humble meals in remembrance of Lucia’s piety and hardships endured during times of famine. They abstain from bread and pasta and eat, instead, dishes like arancini and cuccìa.
These celebrations not only honor Santa Lucia but also embrace the love, kindness, and the joys of togetherness that define Christmas in Italy. Celebrating La Festa di Santa Lucia reinforces the idea that the holiday season is about more than gifts. Christmas is about connection, gratitude, and the light of hope in all of us.
