English
If you are bored of the usual procession of the Kings on Epiphany and are in search of new thrills, there’s a traditional Italian feast that will surely excite you. It takes place in Venice on January 6 and is called the Befana Regatta. This parade is unusual because the Magi from the East have been replaced by elderly witches who float through the city with their brooms. They can be seen on lots of gondolas and on every street corner, but they’re not there to scare the children.
This celebration is quite different, really, and unknown in much of the world. The Witch Befana is very famous in Italy because she flies above the cities every year and fills the houses with gifts. Young children know this quite well. And as the story goes, this old woman led the Magi to the manger in Bethlehem and was even invited to go with them to adore the Child Jesus but chose not to. In spite of what many may think about witches and the Befana’s ragged appearance, she’s a good witch. The Befana in Italy is responsible for filling the houses with gifts, chocolates and sweets. She achieves this by going down the chimney much like Santa Claus does. But those who have behaved badly will only receive a lump of coal, so you better watch out!
If you are in Venice on this day, you will see how unique this celebration is compared to what is done in the rest of the world. On the Epiphany there’s a witch race with all of the participants dressed up and roaming the streets. And the Venetians have a penchant for dressing up. January 6 is a very special day for them, a day that involves everyone and when many celebrate one of their favorite holidays. There are two important events. The first is the Befana Race which is held on the island of Lido and involves both athletes and spectators, who are supposed to run after the witch that is riding a motorcycle around town. It’s certainly a sight to see, but I highly recommend that you take part if you want to truly enjoy yourself. It will make you laugh nonstop and bring you back memories of your own childhood.
The other major event is, as I said, the Regatta of Befana. The Venetian canals are the stage for the race between the best rowers in the city and many from other areas of Italy. The rowers belong to the historic rowing club that was created in 1882, and on this day they all dress up as old witches. There are, however, also thrill-seekers who jump on board these small boats to surprise the children waiting excitedly on the shore.
The Befana Race or Regatta covers the entire city, crossing the Grand Canal in order to finally reach the finish line which is located at the Rialto Bridge. People there are euphoric in anticipation of their arrival. The fastest rower, the winner, will receive a prize and the title of the most famous elderly woman in Italy for the following year. It is an honor for them, and considered quite an accomplishment among Venetians. So if you plan to travel to the city of gondolas this January, don’t miss this famous regatta. It begins in the morning at around 11 am and ends at noon with a tasting of mulled wine and chocolate at the Fondamenta of Vin. For locals, it’s a fun meeting place. For visitors, it’s a great opportunity to see a truly unusual festival. It might just change your opinion about witches.
