La Befana is Coming to Town

While Italian children believe in Babbo Natale (Santa Claus), they also have La Befana, an old witch-looking woman who rides a broom and delivers presents on the night before Epiphany, (Epiphania) which is celebrated January 6. This marks the final day of the stagione natale, the Christmas season. There are different accounts for the woman who inspired this legend,…

Is Santa Claus Italian?

“Is Santa Claus Italian?!?” exclaimed seven-year-old Daughter as she was watching the animated movie “Rise of the Guardians.”  Alec Baldwin voices Santa Claus, who does speak with an accent, although I’m not sure that it’s intended to be Italian. “Mom, listen to him!” she implored, and then really focused on the next few lines of dialogue….

Is Santa Claus Italian?

Originally posted December 2013 on Prayers and Piazzas This question came up recently from 7-year-old Baby Girl as she was watching the animated movie Rise of the Guardians.  Alec Baldwin voices Santa Claus, who does speak with an accent, although I’m not sure it’s intended to be Italian. “Mom, listen to him!” she exclaimed, “Oh…

Is Santa Claus Italian?

This question came up recently from 7-year-old Baby Girl as she was watching the animated movie “Rise of the Guardians.”  Alec Baldwin voices Santa Claus, who does speak with an accent, although I’m not sure it’s intended to be Italian. “Mom, listen to him!” she exclaimed, “Oh ya, he’s definitely Italian!” May I interject here…