{"id":1774,"date":"2011-12-24T22:09:36","date_gmt":"2011-12-24T21:09:36","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/walks.friday.ie\/?p=1774"},"modified":"2024-12-22T13:09:52","modified_gmt":"2024-12-22T13:09:52","slug":"italian-new-year-capodanno","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno","title":{"rendered":"7 Unique Italian New Year Traditions: Celebrate Capodanno Like a Local"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Around the world, special customs and rituals mark the arrival of the New Year, and Italy is no exception. The Italian New Year, or &#8220;Capodanno,&#8221; is a time-honored celebration filled with rich <strong>Italian New Year traditions<\/strong> and a dash of superstition. From festive feasts to symbolic gestures of good fortune, these customs reflect the joy and optimism Italians embrace as they welcome the year ahead.<\/p>\n<p>Join us as we explore the unique world of <strong>Italian New Year traditions<\/strong>, uncovering seven of the most cherished and celebrated practices that make this holiday truly special.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20899\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20899\" class=\"wp-image-20899 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Fireworks_over_Ponte_Vecchio_2res.jpg\" alt=\"fireworks over the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence\" width=\"1200\" height=\"897\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Fireworks_over_Ponte_Vecchio_2res.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Fireworks_over_Ponte_Vecchio_2res-768x574.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20899\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Lucky enough to be in Florence for New Year&#8217;s? Don&#8217;t miss the fireworks over Ponte Vecchio!<\/p><\/div>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Common_Italian_New_Year_Traditions\" >Common Italian New Year Traditions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Out_with_the_old_Banishing_bad_luck_the_Italian_way\" >Out with the old: Banishing bad luck the Italian way<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Festive_feast_Italian_New_Year_dinner_traditions\" >Festive feast: Italian New Year dinner traditions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Sweet_treats_for_the_New_Year_Panettone_to_pandoro\" >Sweet treats for the New Year: Panettone to pandoro<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Exchanging_gifts_and_treats_Symbols_of_Italian_good_fortune\" >Exchanging gifts and treats: Symbols of Italian good fortune<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Lighting_up_the_sky_Italian_New_Year_fireworks\" >Lighting up the sky: Italian New Year fireworks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Wearing_red_for_luck_An_Italian_New_Years_Eve_tradition\" >Wearing red for luck: An Italian New Year\u2019s Eve tradition<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Keeping_the_flame_alive_The_Italian_yule_log_tradition\" >Keeping the flame alive: The Italian yule log tradition<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#FAQ_Celebrating_New_Years_in_Italy\" >FAQ: Celebrating New Year\u2019s in Italy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Are_there_any_specific_superstitions_Italians_follow_for_New_Year\" >Are there any specific superstitions Italians follow for New Year?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#What_are_the_most_popular_cities_to_celebrate_New_Years_in_Italy\" >What are the most popular cities to celebrate New Year\u2019s in Italy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Is_New_Years_Eve_in_Italy_family-oriented_or_more_about_parties\" >Is New Year\u2019s Eve in Italy family-oriented or more about parties?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Do_Italians_make_New_Years_resolutions\" >Do Italians make New Year\u2019s resolutions?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#What_do_Italians_eat_on_New_Years_Eve\" >What do Italians eat on New Year\u2019s Eve?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Are_there_any_unique_New_Years_Eve_celebrations_in_Southern_Italy\" >Are there any unique New Year\u2019s Eve celebrations in Southern Italy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#What_is_the_significance_of_fireworks_during_New_Years_in_Italy\" >What is the significance of fireworks during New Year\u2019s in Italy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/art-culture\/italian-new-year-capodanno\/#Can_visitors_join_public_New_Years_celebrations_in_Italy\" >Can visitors join public New Year\u2019s celebrations in Italy?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Italian_New_Year_Traditions\"><\/span>Common Italian New Year Traditions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Out_with_the_old_Banishing_bad_luck_the_Italian_way\"><\/span>Out with the old: Banishing bad luck the Italian way<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Traditionally, here&#8217;s how Italians, particularly in southern Italy, have launched their celebrations on New Year&#8217;s Eve: by throwing old pots, pans, clothes, appliances, even furniture out the window. Really!<\/p>\n<p>This unique Italian New Year tradition is meant to symbolize &#8220;letting go&#8221; of past unhappiness to prepare yourself for the future. Although most Italians have abandoned the tradition, do watch your head on the streets of Naples on New Year&#8217;s Eve!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20903\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20903\" class=\"wp-image-20903 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/sara-cudanov-PbBdPUBdjbQ-unsplashres.jpg\" alt=\"windows on building in Italy\" width=\"1200\" height=\"674\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/sara-cudanov-PbBdPUBdjbQ-unsplashres.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/sara-cudanov-PbBdPUBdjbQ-unsplashres-768x431.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20903\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">If you&#8217;re in Italy on New Year&#8217;s, don&#8217;t be surprised if you see things flying out of open windows! One of our favorite Italian New Year traditions, this is one activity that&#8217;s not to be missed. Photo credit: Sara Cudanov<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Festive_feast_Italian_New_Year_dinner_traditions\"><\/span>Festive feast: Italian New Year dinner traditions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In Italy, a traditional New Year\u2019s Eve meal is all about symbolizing abundance, reflecting the hopes for prosperity and good fortune in the coming year. Each dish carries a special meaning, with ingredients chosen to bring luck, wealth, and happiness. Depending on the region, you\u2019ll find a variety of<a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/food-and-wine\/the-16-most-iconic-foods-to-eat-in-italy\"> iconic Italian foods<\/a> on the table, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><em>Risotto in bianco<\/em> (white risotto)<\/strong>: In Piedmont, rice symbolizes coins and prosperity. This makes risotto a popular choice for the occasion.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lentils<\/strong>: Found in many dishes across Italy, lentils also represent wealth due to their coin-like shape.<\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Cotechino<\/strong><\/em>: A large pork sausage, boiled over low heat for hours, traditionally served with lentils. The famous <strong><em>cotechino <\/em><\/strong>from Modena holds IGP (legally protected) status but is also popular in Lombardy, Molise, Trentino, and Veneto.<\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Zampone<\/strong><\/em>: Another sausage dish, stuffed into a hollowed-out pig\u2019s trotter. When sliced, the pieces resemble coins, symbolizing &#8211; you guessed it &#8211; prosperity.<\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Tortellini in brodo<\/strong><\/em>: A comforting dish of stuffed pasta served in a flavorful broth, often a highlight of New Year\u2019s meals.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fish and seafood<\/strong>: Particularly along the coasts, dishes featuring fish and seafood are believed to bring good luck and are a common part of the festive menu. Some of the most popular <a href=\"https:\/\/devourtours.com\/blog\/italian-christmas-foods\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Italian Christmas foods<\/a>, you&#8217;ll find fish and seafood on Italian tables through late December and early January.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These dishes not only delight the taste buds but also carry the hopes and wishes for a prosperous new year, rooted in Italian tradition.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20907\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20907\" class=\"wp-image-20907 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Petit_sale_02res.jpg\" alt=\"stew with lentils, pork and vegetables\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Petit_sale_02res.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Petit_sale_02res-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20907\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One dish that&#8217;s common on tables in Italy on New Year&#8217;s is lentils with <em>cotechino<\/em>, a type of pork. Photo credit: Arnaud 25<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sweet_treats_for_the_New_Year_Panettone_to_pandoro\"><\/span>Sweet treats for the New Year: <em>Panettone <\/em>to<em> pandoro<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>No Italian New Year\u2019s celebration is complete without indulging in traditional sweet treats, with <em><strong>panettone<\/strong> <\/em>taking center stage. This iconic, dome-shaped sweet bread, studded with raisins and candied fruits, is a must-have during the festive season, symbolizing prosperity and togetherness.<\/p>\n<p>Other regional favorites include <em><strong>pandoro<\/strong><\/em>, a star-shaped, buttery cake often dusted with powdered sugar, and <em><strong>torrone<\/strong><\/em>, a chewy nougat made with honey, nuts, and egg whites. These desserts are typically served as a finale to the lavish New Year\u2019s Eve feast, paired with a glass of sparkling <a href=\"https:\/\/devourtours.com\/blog\/veneto-wines\/#Prosecco\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Prosecco<\/strong><\/a> or <strong>Spumante<\/strong> to toast the arrival of the new year. Whether shared at home or gifted to loved ones, these sweets embody the joy and abundance Italians hope for in the year ahead.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20986\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20986\" class=\"wp-image-20986 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Panettone.jpg\" alt=\"freshly cut panettone\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Panettone.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/11\/Panettone-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20986\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One things you&#8217;ll find in almost any household on New Year&#8217;s in Italy? <em>Panettone,<\/em> glorious <em>panettone<\/em>. Photo credit: N I C O L A<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Exchanging_gifts_and_treats_Symbols_of_Italian_good_fortune\"><\/span>Exchanging gifts and treats: Symbols of Italian good fortune<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To ensure a sweet new year, ancient Romans gave each other jars of dates and figs in honey, along with a bay branch for good fortune. Guess what? This hasn&#8217;t changed much, at least in Naples, where people exchange figs wrapped in laurel leaves.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20905\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20905\" class=\"wp-image-20905 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/weronika-romanowska-9rVVEYWG9lY-unsplashres.jpg\" alt=\"figs\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/weronika-romanowska-9rVVEYWG9lY-unsplashres.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/weronika-romanowska-9rVVEYWG9lY-unsplashres-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20905\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Figs are popular in Italy and have been a part of the country&#8217;s culinary traditions for centuries, including at New Year&#8217;s. Photo credit: Weronika Romanowska<\/p><\/div>\n<h3 title=\"Fireworks for New Year's in Italy\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lighting_up_the_sky_Italian_New_Year_fireworks\"><\/span>Lighting up the sky: Italian New Year fireworks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Fireworks and lots of noise also &#8220;scare&#8221; the bad spirits away. So, of course, expect lots of fireworks on New Year&#8217;s Eve. Practically every city and town puts on a dazzling display. On a riskier note, families and groups of friends will often host their own, or simply throw firecrackers. So be careful walking around!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_5532\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5532\" class=\"wp-image-5532 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Detail-of-facade-of-Saint-Marks-cathedral-in-Venice-Italy-with-Holiday-fireworks-exploding-in-the-background..jpg\" alt=\"Fireworks above a building in Venice for New Year's Eve\" width=\"1000\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Detail-of-facade-of-Saint-Marks-cathedral-in-Venice-Italy-with-Holiday-fireworks-exploding-in-the-background..jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Detail-of-facade-of-Saint-Marks-cathedral-in-Venice-Italy-with-Holiday-fireworks-exploding-in-the-background.-768x511.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-5532\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One of our favorite Italian New Year&#8217;s traditions is the fireworks show, like this one in Venice.<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Wearing_red_for_luck_An_Italian_New_Years_Eve_tradition\"><\/span>Wearing red for luck: An Italian New Year\u2019s Eve tradition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Wearing red underwear on New Year\u2019s Eve is an Italian tradition said to bring love, luck, and fertility in the year ahead. The tradition dates back to ancient times and remains a fun, superstitious custom.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s common to spot an abundance of red undergarments displayed in shop windows during this season. If you&#8217;re one to embrace superstitions, consider getting yourself a pair.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20900\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20900\" class=\"wp-image-20900 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/5251417527_8ee04b90fd_kres.jpg\" alt=\"red underwear and lingerie\" width=\"1200\" height=\"959\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/5251417527_8ee04b90fd_kres.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/5251417527_8ee04b90fd_kres-768x614.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20900\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Did you know that one of the Italian New Year traditions is wearing red underwear on the last day of the year? The color red is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. Photo credit: Keith Williamson<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keeping_the_flame_alive_The_Italian_yule_log_tradition\"><\/span>Keeping the flame alive: The Italian yule log tradition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Another tradition for some people in Italy is to fire up the Christmas log on the last day of the year. Turns out, evil spirits don&#8217;t like fire. It&#8217;s also a gesture of invitation to the Virgin Mary, who can warm newborn Jesus next to the warm flames. Afterwards, according to tradition, families would use the ashes as charms to protect the house from damage.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20902\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20902\" class=\"wp-image-20902 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/nanna-moilanen-eKDVJPQRxew-unsplashres.jpg\" alt=\"Yule log burning in a fire as part of the Italian New Year traditions\" width=\"1200\" height=\"797\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/nanna-moilanen-eKDVJPQRxew-unsplashres.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/nanna-moilanen-eKDVJPQRxew-unsplashres-768x510.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20902\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Having a fire during the holidays is one way to keep things cozy, although it&#8217;s not as famous as some of the other Italian New Year traditions. Photo credit: Nanna Moilanen<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_Celebrating_New_Years_in_Italy\"><\/span><strong>FAQ: Celebrating New Year\u2019s in Italy<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_there_any_specific_superstitions_Italians_follow_for_New_Year\"><\/span>Are there any specific superstitions Italians follow for New Year?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, Italians follow several superstitions during New Year\u2019s. For example, throwing old or unwanted items out of windows symbolizes letting go of the past. Some also believe starting the year with money in your pocket ensures financial stability.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_most_popular_cities_to_celebrate_New_Years_in_Italy\"><\/span>What are the most popular cities to celebrate New Year\u2019s in Italy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Rome, Milan, Venice, and Florence are popular destinations for New Year\u2019s celebrations. These cities host grand events, including fireworks, concerts, and festive dinners. Smaller towns often have unique local traditions.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_22292\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22292\" class=\"wp-image-22292 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Walks_Florence_Alone-in-Duomo_0018.jpg\" alt=\"A group of people walking around Florence, Italy.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Walks_Florence_Alone-in-Duomo_0018.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Walks_Florence_Alone-in-Duomo_0018-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22292\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Florence is a popular city for celebrating New Year&#8217;s in Italy. Just don&#8217;t throw any pots or pans off the Ponte Vecchio!<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_New_Years_Eve_in_Italy_family-oriented_or_more_about_parties\"><\/span><strong>Is New Year\u2019s Eve in Italy family-oriented or more about parties?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>New Year\u2019s Eve, or &#8220;La Festa di San Silvestro,&#8221; is often spent with family for a festive meal. After dinner, many Italians head out to join public celebrations, watch fireworks, or attend parties with friends.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_Italians_make_New_Years_resolutions\"><\/span><strong>Do Italians make New Year\u2019s resolutions?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>While New Year\u2019s resolutions aren\u2019t as formalized in Italian culture as in some other countries, many Italians still reflect on their goals and hopes for the coming year during this time.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_do_Italians_eat_on_New_Years_Eve\"><\/span>What do Italians eat on New Year\u2019s Eve?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Italians traditionally eat a hearty meal on New Year\u2019s Eve that includes dishes like lentils (symbolizing wealth), <em>cotechino<\/em> (a type of sausage), and <em>zampone<\/em> (stuffed pig\u2019s trotter). These foods are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune in the coming year.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_22284\" style=\"width: 1210px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-22284\" class=\"wp-image-22284 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Devour_Florence_Oltrarno-at-Sunset_0046.jpg\" alt=\"Group toasting to a meal in a Florentine restaurant\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Devour_Florence_Oltrarno-at-Sunset_0046.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Devour_Florence_Oltrarno-at-Sunset_0046-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-22284\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Spumante, or sparkling wine, is a common drink on New Year&#8217;s Eve in Italy. However, all drinks can be found; we&#8217;re fond of red wine for any special meal!<\/p><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_there_any_unique_New_Years_Eve_celebrations_in_Southern_Italy\"><\/span>Are there any unique New Year\u2019s Eve celebrations in Southern Italy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>In Southern Italy, coastal towns often celebrate with bonfires and spectacular fireworks displays over the water. Some places also have unique local customs, such as group dances or special church services.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_significance_of_fireworks_during_New_Years_in_Italy\"><\/span>What is the significance of fireworks during New Year\u2019s in Italy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Fireworks are a central part of Italian New Year\u2019s Eve celebrations. They are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the year ahead. Many towns and cities put on large public displays.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_visitors_join_public_New_Years_celebrations_in_Italy\"><\/span><strong>Can visitors join public New Year\u2019s celebrations in Italy?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Absolutely! Most major cities and towns have open-air events that are free for everyone to enjoy, including tourists. These range from live music and street performances to communal fireworks shows at midnight.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Celebrating New Year&#8217;s in Italy? We wish you many happy meals, toasts with Spumante, and the anticipation of a prosperous new year! No matter where the new year takes you, we hope you&#8217;ll consider one of our tours &#8211; in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/\">Italy or beyond<\/a>!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>Update Notice: This article was updated on December 22, 2024.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Around the world, special customs and rituals mark the arrival of the New Year, and Italy is no exception. The Italian New Year, or &#8220;Capodanno,&#8221; is a time-honored celebration filled with rich Italian New Year traditions and a dash of superstition. From festive feasts to symbolic gestures of good fortune, these customs reflect the joy [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":88,"featured_media":20910,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[88,222,201],"ppma_author":[196],"class_list":["post-1774","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-art-culture","tag-christmas","tag-christmas-traditions","tag-italy"],"authors":[{"term_id":196,"user_id":88,"is_guest":0,"slug":"chiarar","display_name":"Chiara R.","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Chiara-Rossi.png","url2x":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Chiara-Rossi.png"},"user_url":"","last_name":"R.","first_name":"Chiara","job_title":"","description":"Born and raised amidst the ancient ruins and charming cobblestone streets, Chiara is the ultimate insider when it comes to all things Rome. Whether she's unraveling the secrets of the Colosseum or exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Trastevere, Chiara's always immersing herself in the world of fashion, food and travel, and she loves sharing her life and insights to the world through her writing."}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1774"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/88"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1774"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1774\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22759,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1774\/revisions\/22759"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20910"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1774"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1774"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1774"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=1774"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}