An important holiday celebrated in Italy is Christmas (Natale) , which is considered the most important holiday in the country. The festive season begins on December 8 with the Day of the Immaculate Conception, when Italians decorate their homes and cities with lights and nativity scenes. Christmas Eve features a grand family feast called "La Vigilia," and Christmas Day is dedicated to family gatherings, gift exchanges, and traditional meals. The holiday season extends to January 6 with "La Befana," a tradition where a friendly witch delivers sweets to children
. Another significant holiday is Festa della Repubblica (Republic Day) on June 2 , which commemorates the birth of the Italian Republic in 1946. It is marked by military parades and official ceremonies, especially in Rome, and is considered a national symbol of Italy
. Other notable holidays include Ferragosto (Assumption Day) on August 15 , a summer holiday for relaxation and feasts, and Liberation Day on April 25 , commemorating the end of World War II in Italy
. However, Christmas remains the most culturally and widely celebrated holiday in Italy.
