There are a great many holidays in Italy - these are state, religious, and regional holidays, perhaps even the Italians themselves cannot list them all. But there are 12 major holidays recognized as official throughout the country - these days government offices, banks, most shops are closed, and public transport operates on a Sunday schedule. Many museums and exhibition halls in holidays also take a break from visitors.

New Year, January 1

New Year or, as it is called in Italy, Capodanno - the head of the year, is celebrated by the Italians according to the Gregorian calendar on the night of December 31 to January 1. Despite the fact that many establishments do not work on a holiday, get bored in new year's eve you don’t have to - festivities are organized on the streets, grandiose performances, carnivals, fireworks are organized on the main squares of Italian cities.

New Year's Eve in Italy hosts grandiose performances and fireworks

In Rome, the main action takes place in Piazza del Popolo, where entertainment events for adults take place at night, and on the morning of January 1, circus performers for children begin. Venetians celebrate the New Year in Piazza San Marco, residents and guests - in Piazza Fellini, and Turin - in Piazza San Carlo. January 1 is an official holiday, but if it falls on Saturday or Sunday, then the Monday following them is also declared a holiday.

Epiphany, January 6

The Feast of the Epiphany is one of the most revered religious holidays in Italy, completes the Christmas activities. The main symbol of this holiday is the good witch Befana, who distributes gifts in memory of those gifts that the Magi brought to Jesus.

The symbol of the feast of the Epiphany - the good witch Befana

Befana enters houses through a chimney and puts delicious sweets in stockings for obedient children, and colored sugar coals for naughty hooligans. In the Vatican, on the day of Epiphany, the Pope reads a festive sermon; in Rome, a one-day fair is organized;

Easter (date varies)

Easter is the main spring holiday in Italy. There is no clearly set date for this holiday, it can vary from the end of March to the end of April (the dates of Easter in Italy 2012-2025 are possible). On this day, a traditional festive mass is held, after which the Pope blesses all those gathered in the square. Festive processions, theatrical performances telling about the life of Jesus Christ are organized throughout the country.

On Easter, Italians give each other colored eggs, often made of chocolate.

Italians give each other one of the main symbols of Easter - painted eggs, but if before the eggs were predominantly chicken, now they have been supplanted everywhere by chocolate. Italian housewives certainly arrange a big cleaning before Easter, and also prepare festive dishes - traditional colomba, reminiscent of our Easter cakes, as well as all kinds of sweets.

Easter Monday

La Pasquetta - little Easter, is celebrated the day after Easter Sunday. On Easter Monday, Italians traditionally go on out-of-town picnics with friends or neighbors.

On Easter Monday, Italians go on country picnics.

The cities also host festive concerts, dance marathons, theatrical performances, as well as various games and competitions. In addition to the traditional egg rolling, in some regions of Italy, cheese rolling is held - large cheese heads are rolled around the city walls. Government agencies are closed on Easter Monday, but museums and exhibitions are usually open.

Liberation Day, April 25

Liberation Day - national holiday in Italy- celebrated on April 25, the day of the country's liberation from fascism. It started from that day new stage in the history of Italy - hundreds of Italian cities and villages were liberated and a huge number of people were saved.

On this day, solemn events, historical reconstructions, festivals, fairs, and concerts are held in the cities of the country. The main attractions and museums are open on Liberation Day. In Venice, April 25 is also celebrated Saint Mark's Day- the patron saint of the city, which is celebrated with mass processions and other solemn events.

Labor Day, May 1

Labor Day is another wonderful spring holiday in Italy, which the Italians themselves celebrate in different ways: some participate in solemn parades and processions, others sing serenades under the windows of their loved ones, and still others, taking a short vacation, go to the southern resorts of the country.

Italians celebrate Labor Day in different ways

There is an interesting Italian tradition - to decorate the May Day tree on Labor Day. Its role can be played by both a real living tree and an ordinary pillar decorated with ribbons, garlands and flowers. Round dances are performed around the May Day tree, they sing, dance, play, and also launch fireworks. Rock and pop concerts, theatrical performances, discos are held in the city squares.

To be continued…

There is a joke that Italians celebrate every day. To some extent, this statement is true. In addition to a large number of national holidays, each town has its own solemn dates and traditions. Sunny and bright Italy really seems to be created for joy, carnivals and music.

Religious holidays

Italians are very religious. Most of the population are zealous Catholics, so the main Christian holidays in Italy are also public holidays.

  • January 6 - Epiphany. This date for millions of Catholics is associated with the baptism of the infant Christ. Despite the purely Christian nature of the holiday, in Italy, the January celebrations are intertwined with pagan traditions and beliefs. So, the symbol of the holiday is the good-natured witch Befana, who delivers gifts to children. Obedient - sweets, toys and other pleasant things, and naughty - coal. The gifts from Befana are a reference to the offerings brought to baby Jesus by the three magi.
  • Easter. From the VI century date catholic easter depends on the position of the heavenly bodies and fits into the interval between March 22 and April 25. On Easter Day, magnificent pyrotechnic shows take place all over Italy. It is customary to celebrate the resurrection of Christ at home with family and friends. On the festive table usually put chocolate eggs, baked lamb, lasagna, scrambled eggs and pies.
  • August 15 - Assumption of the Virgin and Ferragosto. Another curious holiday, in which there are echoes of both Christian and pagan traditions. On the one hand, this is the day of memory of the Virgin Mary, and, on the other hand, August 15 is the date of Ferragosto (an ancient Roman holiday that meant the end of the summer harvest). Ferragosto marks the beginning of a two-week vacation, during which most businesses and institutions close. This is the time of holidays, trips to the sea and picnics.
  • November 1 is All Saints Day. Another holiday with the ancients pagan roots. In the pre-Christian era, on this day, the inhabitants of Europe honored their departed ancestors. It was believed that on the night of November 1, the souls of the dead and evil spirits roam among the living. Since the Christian church was never able to eradicate local beliefs, this date became All Saints' Day. Nowadays, on November 1, memorial services are held in all Italian churches, local residents visit cemeteries and remember their departed loved ones.
  • December 25 — . The most solemn part of the Christmas celebrations takes place in the Vatican near St. Peter's Basilica. Mass is held here, served by the Pope himself. The symbolic birth of Christ occurs at the moment when a baby doll is placed in a specially equipped manger. This honorary duty is usually performed by one of the city officials and a policeman. Otherwise, Italy celebrates Christmas just like the rest of Europe. Italians exchange gifts, throw lavish feasts and meet with their loved ones. Local children, with bated breath, await the visit of the Italian Santa Claus, whose name is Babbo Natale.

Civil holidays

  • 1st of January. The Italians did not always celebrate the New Year on the night of December 31st to January 1st. Under the Nazis, the beginning of the year was postponed to October 28, it was this date that Mussolini's campaign against Rome was dated. Immediately after the overthrow of the fascist regime, they began to celebrate the New Year again in winter. In Italy, there is a belief that in the New Year you need to get rid of everything unnecessary. At the same time, according to tradition, old rubbish is thrown directly into the windows. Carnivals, festive processions and fireworks break out all over the country. Traditional Italian food on New Year's Eve is pork and lentils.
  • Venice Carnival. Exact dates Carnival celebrations are mobile, they depend on the beginning of the Great Catholic Lent. Every winter, millions of tourists flock to Venice to watch the amazing action. The Venetian masquerade ball is considered the oldest and most famous carnival in the world. Its traditions were laid down in the ancient Roman era. In fact, the Venetian carnival is a saturnalia that has changed a lot over two millennia - festivities dedicated to Saturn, the god of fertility and the patron of the world of the dead. These days, the world seemed to be turned upside down, and people with the help of costumes and masks turned into slaves, kings, gods or mythical creatures. Although nowadays in Italy no one reveres Saturn, the carnival invariably takes place with great scope and brilliance. Venice is filled with thousands of amazing and vibrant creatures, music does not stop in the city, and fabulous processions move along the streets.
  • April 25 - Day of the overthrow of the fascist regime. During the reign of Benito Mussolini, an underground anti-fascist movement arose in Italy. In April 1945, an armed uprising broke out in the north of the country, which resulted in the flight of Mussolini from Milan.
  • May 1 - Labor Day. As elsewhere in the world, in Italy, May 1 is associated with the memory of the execution of protesting workers in Chicago. The first political demonstration of the Italian proletariat took place in 1889. The demonstrators defended their right to decent wages and acceptable working conditions. In Italy, Labor Day is bizarrely intertwined with Christian and pagan traditions. On the one hand, the Catholic Church participates in May Day celebrations in its own way, dedicating this day to the father of Christ, Joseph, who, as you know, was a carpenter. On the other hand, according to ancient Roman traditions, the beginning of May in Italy is associated with the cult of fertility and love. On this day, May Day trees are planted, proposals are made and weddings are played.
  • June 2 - Republic Day. After the fall of the fascist regime, the Italians faced a choice: to reform the state system and make their country a republic, or to restore the monarchy. For this purpose, a referendum was organized. On June 2, the entire population of Italy came to the polls. As a result, more than half of the votes were cast for the republic. On this day, military parades and patriotic rallies are held throughout the country.

Italians like no one else loves holidays and various carnivals. As the inhabitants of this country themselves believe, every day a holiday is celebrated in some town or settlement. As in any country, the national holidays of Italy are divided into civil and religious. But any event is very colorful, with processions and fun. Not a single Italian will be able to answer how many significant dates they have in total, since their number is very large.

What are holidays in Italy about?

Italy is a country famous for its culinary traditions, as well as the fact that the Vatican, the center of Catholic life throughout Europe, is located on its territory. Therefore, the Italians have a lot of different festivals dedicated to products, when the locals demonstrate their culinary skills, as well as celebrations in honor of the saints.

Public holidays and carnivals

Venice Carnival. Italy is inseparable from the carnival, which takes place annually in Venice and gathers more than 500 thousand people. The origins of this tradition go back to the Middle Ages. A costume party is organized every year in February. The carnival is known for its masks, which the participants of the festival make with their own hands. The more beautiful the decoration, the more chances to take part in the mask competition. Immediately after the carnival, the pre-Easter fast begins.

New Year. Italians love to celebrate the beginning of the new year in the open air. They drink wine on the street straight from the bottle, and break empty containers for good luck. The first of January is a public holiday in Italy, and if it falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it is moved to Monday.

sweet day. Saint Valentine, the protector of all lovers, is revered in all countries of the European continent. February 14 is a "sweet day" in Italy. Here they give sweet kisses, sweets, plush toys.

March 8. March 8 is not a public holiday in Italy. On this day, rallies and demonstrations are held in many cities. But Italians don't like to celebrate this day. They are outraged that attention to women is given only once a year, when it should be daily.

father's day. Saint Giuseppe, according to the beliefs of the Italians, was the father of Christ and always defended the poor and girls. Therefore, on March 19, it is customary to invite the poor to dinner and feed him. This is one of the most revered holidays. Children give gifts to their fathers and thank them for what they have. But still, Mother's Day, which is held on May 12, is more revered by Italians.

Public holidays

Founding of Rome. For residents of the city and tourists on April 21, the gates of the eternal city open and let them in on a colorful holiday. On this day, it was started to hold a beauty contest among girls, those territories that were once part of the Roman Empire.

Day of liberation from fascism. The national holiday of Italy, which is celebrated on April 25, is marked by the fact that Mussolini left Milan and the people began to fight for democratic freedoms.

labor holiday. Every year on May 1, demonstrations are held in all cities of Italy in honor of the Labor Day. But the holiday is more famous for the fact that on the first day of May, men in love put a branch of a tree or shrub under the threshold of their beloved, as a symbol of the fact that they want to offer her a hand and heart. Also on May 1, a kind of youth day is held. Music concerts are organized. It has become a tradition to plant a tree on this day, but some simply set up a pole, decorate it with garlands and hold festivities around it.

Republic Day. Monarchies in Italy were ended on June 2, when a republican system was proclaimed as a result of a general election. On this day, parades with obligatory air shows are held in major cities of the country.

Religious holidays

Easter. The most revered holiday for all Catholics is Easter. For him there is no set day, like all Christians. The date changes every year. by the most the best gift eggs are considered, especially chocolate ones with a surprise. At Easter they eat various dishes from eggs.

Saint Lawrence Day. During the reign of Valerian, Saint Lawrence was subjected to persecution and persecution as an adherent of the faith of Christ. Valerian forbade disrespect for paganism. Since then, on the night of August 10-11, Italians have been waiting for the first star to fall in order to have time to make a wish that will surely come true within a year.

Saint Bartholomew's Day. Very fun party flowing with festivities, tug-of-war competitions, and other sports. Performances are held on the squares of cities, dishes are prepared according to recipes from different provinces. The holiday ends with a traditional brass band concert.

All Saints' Day. On the first day of November, patron saints are venerated in Italy. Italians visit cemeteries and commemorate dead relatives. And if November 1 falls on the first Sunday of the month, then it is also a holiday of National Unity.
Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This holiday is celebrated differently in every city. But everyone honors the Madonna on this day, they bring flowers to her statues. On the main squares on December 8, Christmas markets unfold.

Christmas. Italians love December 25 as the day to start new life and get rid of everything old that was in life. They literally throw away everything: dishes, things and even furniture. At Christmas, Italians give each other small gifts, mostly sweets and small toys.

Saint Stephen's Day. One of the oldest carnivals in Italy begins on December 26 in Putignano, lasts several days and ends with Shrove Tuesday. Farinella is the hero of the carnival. He is dressed in colorful clothes and a hat with bells. The celebration continues until late at night. At midnight, before fasting, a bell begins to ring, which beats 365 beats. After the last blow, all festivities cease. Post starts. Ashes are sprayed over the heads of the gathered people as a sign that the time of expanse is over, the time of restriction has come.

Baptism. One of the brightest and favorite holidays, especially among children. Indeed, on this day, the sorceress Befana carries sweets home. And the story began with the fact that the Magi, going to Jesus with gifts, invited the good sorceress Befana to go with them, but she refused. And when I thought of it, it was too late - the Magi had gone far away. Since then, Befana has been delivering gifts home on the night of January 6th. She flies on a broomstick, enters houses through a chimney and arranges gifts in socks, which are hung up by residents who are already waiting for her. And for children who behave badly, Befana brings only colored sugar coals.
This day is considered the end of the New Year festivities. Fairs are held on January 6th, where sweet Befana figurines are always sold.

Abbot Saint Antonio's Day. In the central and southern parts of Italy, January 17 is a day dedicated to Saint Antonio, the first priest who went into ascetics and spent his life in the desert.

Saint Inessa's Day. On the day of January 21, a solemn event takes place in the church of St. Agnes: two sheep are sheared, which were grown especially for this day, and a cloak is woven from their wool. Then, as a gift, the cloak is presented to the Pope.

State and Religious holidays Italy. Carnivals and festivals not to be missed. Official holidays in Italy in 2019.

Italians are simple and hospitable people. They, like no other, know how to rejoice, be sad and empathize. Therefore, the holidays are celebrated on a special scale and are often accompanied by grandiose sales, carnivals and festivals. The Italians themselves say that every day there is a reason for joy. When there are no generally accepted holidays, in small towns they have fun on their own special occasions. Before visiting this country, tourists should learn in advance about the features of Italian celebrations.

Which carnivals and festivals in Italy to pay attention to, as well as official public holidays in Italy in 2019.

Popular tours in Rome

Whatever period you come to Italy, it is more interesting to start acquaintance with (to see all the significant places and outline the routes of future walks). And then go to the famous gardens in the vicinity of the capital: the tour is a walk with an individual guide through the "most beautiful park in Europe" (5 hours, Tripster).

New Year in Italy 2020

If Christmas is a family holiday, then it is a celebration for which no money, no scope, no fuse is spared. It is not customary to give gifts on this night, but concerts, festivals and carnivals are held everywhere. It is important to remember that most of the squares are closed before the start of the holiday (around 22-00) and you will not be able to get to the concert later. If the traveler missed the public festivities on the square, you should not be upset. Cozy cafes and upscale restaurants are open that night. Each of them has its own show program. Atmosphere New Year's Italy no one will be bored.

The streets of the cities are filled with people, they are happy to meet tourists, drink wine, champagne, dance, laugh and admire the fireworks.

Christmas and New Year in Italy are official holidays. The same protracted as in Russia, the holidays last from December 24 to January 6.

It is important to remember that on New Year's Eve in Italy it is not customary to wear exquisite outfits. Simple but comfortable things here are a symbol of taste and respect for traditions.

Holidays in Italy in January 2019

Baptism in this country is associated with a fairy (someone calls her a witch) Befana. Elderly woman flies on a broomstick and throws off gifts for children. Obedient - exquisite sweets and toys, naughty get sweet coals. At this time, carnivals and fairs are held in the squares of large and not very Italian cities, which complete new year holidays. The most popular souvenir of this celebration is the figurine of a fairy. It can be bought at any shop.

Italians are religious, so the days of veneration of saints are always celebrated. In January 2019, Antonio (17) and Inessa (21) will be remembered. In the first case, you can enjoy a pie according to the national recipe (with raisins), in the second case, the manufacture and sale of woolen products is typical.

Festivals and carnivals in Italy in February 2019

Before Lent, it is transformed and filled with colors of the world famous festival (in 2019 it will be held from February 23 to March 5).

Holidays in Italy 2019: Venice Carnival

The holiday was invented by the medieval aristocracy and is a grandiose procession. Every year at this time, millions of tourists come to Italy to admire the carnival procession. Museums, art galleries and most shops are closed during the festival. But you can buy it at numerous fairs and bazaars.

February 14 is a special day for Italians, because Italy is the birthplace of St. Valentine. Gifts are given to loved ones, cities are transformed, gazebos and cafes are filled with couples. For this holiday in Italy, it is recommended to go only to lovers. The work of shops, cafes and restaurants is aimed mainly at "paired" visitors. For those who have not yet met their love, it may be uncomfortable.

Holidays in Italy in March 2019

March 8 for Italian women is not a significant day. They motivate their dislike for the holiday with the desire to be loved all year round. Although in fairness, some residents of Italy have not even heard of international women's day. In March 2019, two colorful carnivals will be held in Italy at once:

  • A daring and wayward procession is the carnival in Viareggio. In the clown costumes of artists, one can easily recognize the figures of scandalous politicians.
  • The Ambrosian Carnival (Milan) makes fun of the vices of the rich. It is fun and interesting for tourists. It does not interfere with ignorance of the language. Everything is clear intuitively.

Father's Day in this country coincides with Saint Giuseppe's Day (March 19). It is characterized by street feasts, colorful street decoration and many souvenirs.

In the same period, the Orange battle takes place in Turin.

The beginning of spring is colorful and peculiar. Tours to Italy in March are not very expensive. You can visit carnivals, feast at the feast of the fathers and plant a tree, reuniting with nature on Tree Day (March 21).

Holidays in Italy and Easter in April 2019

In Italy there is no April Fool's Day, here April 1 is the day of the fish. Tourists should be careful. During walks, it’s really possible to get a paper or rag fish glued to your back. And you can get a fun gift (cracker, sweets or a card with a playful prediction).

In 2019, Easter falls on April 21st. Every city in Italy has its own traditions. So, guests and residents can visit the ancient ritual of lighting a fire, and in Rome there is an opportunity to go through a procession from the Colosseum to the Palatine. Visiting museums on this holiday will not work, and many tourist routes may be closed. However, an enchanting celebration with fireworks, performances and concerts (after official events) is guaranteed.

Also, April 21 will be celebrated as a day. The tradition of this celebration in the capital of Italy is the holding of competitions. Very popular - the choice of the Goddess of Rome. Girls from 18 to 30 years old are invited to participate.

Holidays in Italy in May 2019

Labor Day is celebrated on May 1st and is symbolic for Italians. More than a century ago, on this day, a decision was made to recognize the right of workers to an 8-hour working day. This was preceded by several unsuccessful demonstrations.

On May 13, Italians bring gifts to their mothers. On this day, no mother is left without attention. For tourists, this is the time to appreciate the beauty of Italian nature. No wonder the important holiday in Italy originates from the worship of the Goddess of Fertility. The country is flourishing, filled with colors, laughter and cheerful mood.

Holidays in Italy in June 2019

On June 2, Italians celebrate Proclamation of the Republic Day. Public Holiday Italy and a public holiday. Celebrations take place throughout the country, but they are especially grandiose in Rome. A military parade and an air show (the sky is painted in the colors of the national flag) are worth seeing. It is difficult to buy cheap flights to Italy during this period, so it is better to buy them in advance. This will allow you to book the hotel in advance, and save up to 30% on the cost of the tour.

On June 17, 2019, the Saint Ranieri regatta will be held in Pisa. The meaning of the water competition is to be the first to reach the finish line and pluck the flag (first place is blue). The losing team receives geese as a token of derision.

How to get there
- off-season weather
- price

July-August in Italy - shopping and flowers

Italians celebrate July 1-3. This Italian holiday was invented for tourists. Delicate shades of pink prevail throughout. They decorate houses, streets and even the sky. Guests are pleased with concerts, competitions, discos, exhibitions and performances. Fireworks complete the festival of the Adriatic Riviera.

Festivals of Italy 2019: Pink night, Rimini

From July 7 to August 31, summer sales season begins in Italy. The best time to visit Italian stores is the 3rd week from the start of the sale. For shopping efficiency, you can hire a stylist and at the same time a guide to shops and malls. It is better to buy air tickets to Milan, for example, at this time 1-2 months in advance. That is, in the spring. Otherwise, you will have to pay double the cost.

On August 16, tourists can visit the Palio races in Siena. These are equestrian competitions taking place right on the main square of the city. The races themselves do not last long, and the rest of the time the audience is entertained by acrobats and jugglers.

Why are they worth visiting? It's incredibly colorful and even a little dangerous. A great opportunity to soak up the impressions and tickle your nerves!

Holidays in Italy in September 2019

Day of the Holy Rose in Viterbo (September 3) - a unique procession through the streets of the city. The main attribute of this Italian festival is a mobile tower, which is carried from one end of Viterbo to the other.

From 17 to 23 September, the legendary fashion week begins. Thousands of fashionistas gather at this time, and the world's leading couturiers rush to present their collections. Naturally, the price of tours to the capital of fashion at this time reaches exorbitant heights, it is not easy to find a free place in a hotel. But difficulties do not stop anyone - tickets and hotels in Milan are booked long before the start of fashion week.

Holidays in Italy in October 2019

For travelers who love everything unusual, go to Italy in October 2019. On the second Sunday of this month, you need to be in San Miniato. This is where the traditional goose races take place. Tourists are allowed to place bets. And the city of Perugia at the same time delights guests with a chocolate festival. The action lasts just over a week, and during this time hundreds of confectioners provide their products! Chocolate products of bizarre shapes and sizes are found everywhere on the streets of the city.

Holidays in Italy 2019: chocolate festival

For those who prefer meat to sweets, we recommend the Parma Ham Festival in the town of Parma with the same name. It will be delicious!

Holidays in Italy in November 2019

On November 4, the country mourns the dead. National Unity Day will be an official holiday in Italy 2019. Italians bring wreaths to the graves of loved ones. It is believed that on this day it is better for tourists to stay in a hotel, it is customary to experience grief in the circle of loved ones.

But the middle and end of November can be spent in San Miniato. Autumn food festivals in Italy continue, with the small town taking place every weekend during November. white truffle festival. Guests are invited to attend master classes from leading Italian chefs, try dishes with truffles, and learn how to choose the right product on the shelves.

December Holidays - Christmas in Italy

The Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary (December 8) is considered the first harbinger of Christmas. Italians bring flowers to the church, give gifts to children. Cities freeze in anticipation festive mood, passers-by smile and rush to visit. Some stores run promotions for the purchase of goods.

The beginning of winter is another occasion for smiles and festivals for Italians. So, in Rocca Canterano, a small village near Rome, on December 14, they celebrate the feast of the cuckolds. Show on the square funny scenes from the life of deceived wives and husbands, they laugh, tease and kindly mock them. A mandatory attribute of the holiday are small horns. You can enjoy a kind of Italian festival at quite reasonable prices.

But this, of course, is far from the climax. December in Italy is a special, unusual month. Indeed, in Italy it is closely associated with Christmas (December 24-25). At the same time, it is almost impossible to ask for a visit at this time. All because it is exclusive family holiday. Houses are traditionally decorated, and a roasted goose or duck is served on the table (depending on the area). What should tourists do? On Christmas Eve, Italy becomes a paradise for shopaholics, as an option. Winter sale season in 2019 will last from January 5 to March 1. However, it is better to go shopping after December 25th. During this period, you can buy something useful in a relaxed atmosphere. During the sales season, ticket prices skyrocket, and long queues line up in stores.

The tradition of getting rid of old things at Christmas in Italy is still alive. They do it in an original way - trash is thrown out of the windows. Therefore, walking around the city, look up.

In Italy, they love and know how to enjoy life, perhaps because there are so many holidays in the country during the year. Tourists are not always expected at the celebrations, but what remains is quite enough to fall in love with the country. The main thing to remember is that for grandiose events and festivals in Italy, tickets should be bought in advance. This will save you good money.

Program and dates
- ideas for one day
- things to do

Many tourists, going to Italy, specifically plan a trip for certain dates in order to get in touch with the national color, to get acquainted with folk traditions or special festive dishes of national cuisine. BlogoItaliano already talked about some of the main holidays of the Italian year in the first part of this article, but there were too many of them, and in order not to lose in quality, we decided to postpone half of the holidays for the second part ...

Republic Day, June 2

At the very beginning of summer, Italians splendidly and solemnly celebrate Republic Day: on this day they remember the events that took place in 1946 - on the day of elections on June 1, the country forever said goodbye to the monarchy and switched to a republican form of government.

Military bands play on Italian streets on Republic Day

In major cities in Italy republic day parades, air shows and displays of military equipment are organized - in Rome, the president of the country opens the parade. On a festive day, military bands play in the streets and parks, concerts are held in the squares, museums and exhibition halls open their doors to visitors.

Assumption of the Virgin, August 15

Ferragosto, or the Assumption of the Virgin - the only official holiday in Italy in August. In many regions of the country, it is celebrated with concerts, festivals, parades and, of course, fireworks. Young people celebrate Ferragosto by lighting bonfires on the beaches and arranging gatherings near them until the morning.

Today is the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin - this is the beginning of summer holidays

Once upon a time, this holiday marked the end of the season of big summer jobs, today Assumption of the Virgin- a kind of start to the beginning of mass summer holidays. In mid-August, the cities of Italy seem to die out: everyone who has the opportunity goes to rest on the coast or in the mountains, which is why grandiose traffic jams form on the outskirts of popular resorts. The main museums are open, but many factories, industries, as well as restaurants and shops are closed for the holidays, so the second half of August is far from the best time for shopping.

All Saints Day, November 1

The first day of November is the largest autumn holiday in Italy - All Saints' Day, which is considered a day of mourning and honoring the deceased ancestors, relatives and friends. On this day, solemn memorial masses are held in the temples of the country, and the next day - November 2 - Italians go to cemeteries to lay flowers on the graves of their loved ones.

All Saints Day for young people is another opportunity to have fun

The pagan customs of celebrating All Saints' Day, which originally arose in English-speaking countries, have also been preserved - on the night of October 31, the streets of cities are filled with people dressed up in costumes of evil spirits. They light lamps made of pumpkins and go on a procession through the yards, scaring the owners and demanding a ransom from them in the form of sweets or money. In nightclubs and bars on Halloween night, it is especially noisy and fun - there are costume parties with various games and competitions.

Immaculate Conception, December 8

In early December, Italy celebrates one of the main Catholic holidays - the Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. On this day, solemn services dedicated to the holiday are held in the temples of the country. On the main one, a statue of the Virgin Mary is installed, which is decorated with wreaths and flowers; in Naples, flowers are placed in the hands of the statue of the Madonna, and since the statue is very tall, this is done by firefighters. State institutions are closed on December 8, while private companies work or do not work at their discretion.

In Naples, the statue of the Madonna is decorated by local firefighters

Immaculate Conception– also the day of the beginning of Christmas events: Christmas markets and fairs begin to work all over the country, the streets are decorated festive garlands, Christmas trees are set, and children receive their first gifts.