NIAF NEWS MONTHLY

Press release NIAF 11-20-2008

A monthly bulletin for Italian American organizations and media outlets, dedicated to promoting the language, culture and traditions of Italians and Italian Americans.

December ‘08/January ‘09

Did you know that “La Festa di San Silvestro” is celebrated annually December 31, New Year’s Eve, in Italy.  Families and friends gather for a huge feast (cenone), which includes lentils, symbolizing money and good fortune for the coming year. A large spiced sausage (cotechino), or a stuffed pig (zampone) is also part of the dinner; the pork symbolizes the richness of life in the coming year. A game similar to bingo, “tombola,” is played in homes and parties while spumante or prosecco, Italian sparkling wine, is served at midnight. In some areas, especially in the south, the tradition of throwing old objects out of the window still continues, symbolizing one’s readiness to accept the new year.  Fireworks are also part of the evening’s festivities.  Naples is known to have one of the best and biggest fireworks displays in Italy. Smaller towns build bonfires in their squares, while boats and ships blow their horns in celebration along the coastal cities.

Rome’s Piazza Del Popolo, Venice’s St. Mark’s Square, Milan, Bologna, Palermo and Naples also host outdoor music concerts. Florence’s bridges along the Arno River are an excellent spot to watch the cities’ fireworks.  Rimini will host a festival in its Piazza Fellini with music, dancing and fireworks.

In Bologna, ox are adorned with flowers and ribbons for the traditional Fiera del Bue Grasso (fat ox fair).  Spectators light candles, while church bells ring and fireworks are set off. At the evening’s end, a lottery winner keeps the ox.

Italians also are known to wear red underwear while ringing in the new year because it’s believed to bring good luck. Felice Anno Nuovo!

Buon Anno