Monteroni, Italy is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its beloved Befana Celebration this January 6, 2025, bringing joy and tradition back to the community after years of festive gatherings. The event revolves around the character of Oronza Epifani, who will make her appearance to distribute beloved stockings and embrace children eager for her arrival.
After receiving countless letters from children, Oronza will descend upon Piazza Falconieri, where the day’s festivities will kick off at 9:30 AM. Mayor Mariolina Pizzuto emphasized the importance of the celebration, stating, "We want to create a bridge between generations, bringing joy to families and celebrating the 10th anniversary of the event." This year, the municipality of Monteroni has organized multiple activities aimed at creating community spirit and fostering local traditions.
Kicking off the festivities on January 4 is the "Raise Your Voice" Christmas concert, featuring talented performers Sara and Serena Quarta, set to enchant attendees with festive melodies at the Mother Church. Following this, on January 5, there will be the presentation of the Befana book celebrating the last decade of festivities at the Oratorio San Giovanni, introducing local personalities and artists like Antonio Maggio and Cesko.
On the main day of the celebration, January 6, families can look forward to joining Oronza on the children’s train, which will take off at 9:30 AM from various squares, including Piazza Adamantino and Piazza Candido, culminating at Piazza Falconieri. During this time, local street bands will provide lively entertainment.
At 10:30 AM, the festivities will pause for mass, led by project co-creator Don Giuseppe Spedicato, who commented, "This project aims to promote the local territory and create bonds of solidarity, especially among children." Oronza will greet the public at approximately 11:30 AM, where she will be welcomed by Mayor Pizzuto and other local administrators during the official opening of the Befana House on Via Colavita.
During the afternoon, from 5:00 PM, the Befana House will reopen for more stockings to be handed out to eager children. The evening culminates with the “Premio Solidarietà Befana 2025” event, honoring renowned artist Pierdavide Carone, known for his captivating performances and heartfelt songs. The festivities will conclude formally at 8:00 PM with Carone's performance and the award ceremony held at the Oratorio San Giovanni.
The event not only marks ten years of joyful celebrations but also reflects on the cultural heritage of the region. Cultural councilor Ramona Visconti noted, "The project has become a driving force for our off-season tourism development," indicating the broader impact of the festivities on the local economy.
Following the celebration, between January 8 and 10, members of the Befana House organization will head to Albania to continue their project of solidarity at the Center for Reception of Scutari, Casa Rozalba, demonstrating the event's humanitarian goals.
This anniversary celebration highlights the spirit of togetherness within the community of Monteroni, reconnecting families with their rich history of traditions, all thanks to the vision of local leaders committed to preserving these cherished customs.