Do you believe in Christmas witches?
If you ever spot an elderly woman gliding across the winter sky on a broom with a sack of presents, there is no need to fear. You have just glimpsed Italy’s beloved Christmas witch, La Befana, as she spreads her unique sparkle of holiday magic. Wrapped in simple garments and a humble headscarf, she carries a basket or sack filled with sweet treats for well-behaved children and, now and then, a symbolic lump of coal for those who need a gentle reminder to behave.
According to Italian legend, La Befana’s fate became intertwined with the Three Wise Men when they encountered her early in their sacred journey. She welcomed the travelers into her warm, modest cottage and offered them food, comfort, and a place to rest. At sunrise, they invited her to join them on their journey to Bethlehem, but busy with her chores, she kindly declined. After they had gone, regret filled her heart. She gathered a basket of gifts for the baby Jesus and set off alone, following the same shining star through the night.
Though she followed the guiding star, La Befana did not reach the manger before the Wise Men on January 6, Epiphany. From that night on, she wandered from home to home in search of the Christ Child, leaving gifts for children along the way in hopes that one day she would find him.
This enchanting piece of Italian Christmas folklore has made La Befana a magical figure in Christmas and Epiphany celebrations around the world. Some even believe her story came before and inspired the modern legend of Santa Claus. Her broom is more than a way to travel from rooftop to rooftop and chimney to chimney. It is a symbol of cleansing and renewal. When La Befana visits a home, she is said to sweep away the negative energy of the past year, making space for good fortune, fresh beginnings, and positive change in the year ahead.
In true La Befana style, this truly becomes the Season of the Witch, where old energy is cleared, wishes are renewed, and homes are filled with warmth, light, and possibility. Honestly, if a touch of holiday magic and a fresh start come with her arrival, La Befana is welcome in my home any time of the year.
Discover more from Sandbox World
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.