Nine out of ten Italian households are expected to exchange Befana stockings on Tuesday morning, marking the Feast of the Epiphany on 6 January, according to industry estimates.

The tradition centres on La Befana, a folkloric figure depicted as an elderly, broom-riding woman who brings sweets to well-behaved children and coal to those deemed naughty. The name Befana derives from Epifania, the Italian word for Epiphany, which commemorates the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus.

According to a survey by the Italian Food Union, around 70% of Italian adults will hang up stockings on Monday night. The custom remains widespread across the country, despite rising costs and changing consumer habits.

Consumer group Federconsumatori said ready-made Befana stockings were 14% more expensive than last year, while chocolate sweets rose by 13%. Despite this, retail association Confcooperative estimates total spending linked to the Befana at around €2.4 billion this year.

The Befana as a symbol

Beyond the commercial aspect, the Befana remains a strong cultural symbol. In popular tradition, she is a domestic figure who missed the chance to follow the Magi and now travels each year in search of the Christ child. While affectionate in folklore, the term “befana” is also commonly used as an insult to describe an unattractive or unpleasant woman.

Also read: The Legand of La Befana

Epiphany celebrations also include public events and costumes. In several cities, people dress as Befanas and take part in parades and local festivities. Venice hosts a well-known Epiphany gondola race along the Grand Canal, with participants rowing in costume.

The holiday may also experience unsettled weather. Forecasts point to rain and snowfall across several parts of Italy, adding to the wintry atmosphere traditionally associated with the final holiday of the Christmas season.

In Italy, Epiphany marks the official end of the festive period. As the saying goes, “L’Epifania tutte le feste porta via” (Epiphany ends all the festivities).