La Befana: An Italian Tradition of Reflection, Generosity, and Renewal
If you’re living in Italy—or even just visiting in early January—you’ll quickly notice that the holidays don’t truly end with New Year’s Day. Instead, they gently close with La Befana, celebrated on the night of January 5th and the day of Epiphany, January 6th.
La Befana is one of Italy’s most beloved folkloric figures: an old woman who travels by broomstick, delivering sweets to well-behaved children and coal (often the sugary kind!) to those who were a little mischievous. But behind the playful imagery lies a tradition rich with symbolism, wisdom, and heart.
The Origins of La Befana
The story of La Befana is intertwined with the Christian celebration of Epiphany. According to legend, the Three Wise Men stopped to ask an old woman for directions to Bethlehem. Busy with her chores, she declined to join them. Later, filled with regret, she set off on her broom to search for the Christ child, carrying gifts for him. To this day, she continues her journey, leaving gifts for children in every home she visits.
Some historians believe La Befana’s roots go even deeper—back to ancient pagan traditions tied to the agricultural calendar. She represents the old year, the waning cycle of winter, and the wisdom that comes with age. Her appearance marks the final closing of the holiday season and the quiet beginning of something new.
More Than a Children’s Tradition
While La Befana is often associated with children and candy-filled stockings, for adults it carries a deeper message. She reminds us to reflect on the year that has passed, to release what no longer serves us, and to step forward with humility and generosity.
In many Italian towns, especially Rome, you’ll find lively markets, bonfires, and celebrations in her honor. Effigies of La Befana are sometimes burned—not as something negative, but as a ritual of letting go, making space for renewal.
La Befana as a Mindfulness Practice
There’s something deeply mindful about La Befana. She asks us to slow down after the intensity of the holidays and take stock of where we’ve been.
You might honor La Befana by:
Reflecting on what you’re ready to leave behind from the past year
Writing down lessons learned and moments of gratitude
Clearing your home or workspace to create fresh energy
Offering an act of generosity—toward yourself or someone else
Just as La Befana carries gifts on her journey, we too can choose what we carry forward into the new year.
Closing the Season with Intention
In Italy, there’s a saying: “L’Epifania tutte le feste porta via” — Epiphany takes all the holidays away. And yet, La Befana doesn’t feel like an ending so much as a gentle transition.
She reminds us that wisdom comes with time, that reflection is just as important as celebration, and that every ending holds the seed of a beginning. As the broom sweeps away the old, we are left with a quieter, clearer path ahead.
Whether you celebrate La Befana for the sweets, the folklore, or the symbolism, she offers us a beautiful invitation: to begin again—with intention, humility, and heart.