As the festive season approaches, my dual perspective as an Italian living in the heart of Chicago prompts me to explore and compare the enchanting Christmas traditions of Italy and the United States. Join me on a journey through the sparkling lights, mouthwatering dishes, and heartwarming customs that make each Christmas unique.
Decorations and Atmosphere
In both Italy and the United States, the Christmas season is a time of joy, celebration, and vibrant decorations that transform homes and cities into magical wonderlands.
In Italy, Christmas decor is an art form, blending religious symbols with regional touches. The season officially kicks off on December 8th with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Others like to start the decorations a few days before Santa Lucia on December 13th.
The Christmas tree, or “albero di Natale,” is a cherished decoration in Italian homes. While the tree itself is a common global symbol, the most cherished and widely displayed Christmas decoration is the nativity scene, known as “presepe.” The presepe holds a special place in the hearts of Italians, symbolizing the true spirit of Catholic Christmas. These intricate scenes depicting the birth of Jesus are not only found in churches but also adorning homes and public spaces, including picturesque piazzas. Many Italians take great pride in creating elaborate and detailed presepi, often passed down through generations, each with its unique characters and settings.
The United States embraces a more diverse approach to Christmas decorations. While nativity scenes are also often present, American homes dazzle with elaborate Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and outdoor displays that transform neighborhoods into winter wonderlands. Contrary to Italians, many American families get real Christmas trees each year to decorate.
Another popular tradition in the U.S. is baking and decorating Christmas cookies. It’s typical to use cookie cutters to make sugar cookie dough into holiday shapes like trees, stars, or wreaths. Once the cookies are baked to golden perfection. The real fun begins with the creative and colorful decoration process. Icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter transform simple cookies into edible works of art. This is often accompanied by laughter, storytelling, and a sprinkle of flour on the kitchen counter.
Food and Delight
In Italy, Christmas Eve usually consists of a feast of local seafood delicacies. Traditionally, the ‘Feast of the Seven Fishes’ was celebrated and is now considered more of an Italian-American holiday. Some Italians start celebrating with a nice dinner on December 24th, while others prefer a light meal — preferably without meat — and wait for a huge Christmas lunch, the day after. From north to south, Italians like to toast the Christmas holiday with a glass of prosecco or spumante followed by panettone or pandoro for dessert.
In the United States, Christmas dinner is a diverse affair. While the classic roast turkey takes center stage in many households, there are many variations. Honey-glazed ham, prime rib, or even non-meat options like tamales or lasagna might grace the holiday table. Often, each family has their traditional dishes but the food resembles Thanksgiving. You can always find green bean casserole, rolls, or potatoes as a side dish. Dessert involves Christmas cookies or building your own delicious gingerbread house.
As we explore the Christmas traditions of Italy and the United States, it’s clear that each brings its unique magic to the season. From Italy’s nativity scenes to America’s decorations and delicious Christmas dinners, these traditions highlight the beauty of cultural diversity. Yet, in these differences, a universal spirit of joy and warmth shines through, reminding us that Christmas is a celebration that brings people together, regardless of borders or traditions.
Leave a Reply