In Italian folklore, the Befana is a seasoned woman or witch who bestows gifts upon children across Italy on the evening of Epiphany, specifically on January 5th. This tradition mirrors the gift-giving customs of Santa Claus and the Three Magi Kings. According to popular belief, her name is linked to the Feast of Epiphany. The Befana, as per folklore, visits all Italian children on the eve of Epiphany to fill their stockings with treats and presents if they've been good, or with a lump of coal o

The Befana is one of the most beloved traditions in Italy: a cheerful old lady who flies on a broomstick and, on the night between January 5 and 6, visits homes to leave sweets and small gifts for “good” children and a bit of coal (often made of sugar!) for the mischievous ones. It’s a celebration filled with magic, but also with simple messages: remembering others, closing the festivities with joy, and starting the new year with energy. The reason the Befana “comes” on January 6 is linked to an