The Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, is a significant event around Lake Como, marking the culmination of the holiday season. This day commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus and is rich with traditions that blend religious significance and italian folklore.
Bellano’s Epiphany Festival
Bellano, the next town north of Varenna, celebrates the arrival of the Three Kings – Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar—making their way through the historic streets, leading to the Church of San Nazaro and Celso.
It’s the Pesa Vegia festival. This event, held annually on January 5th, dates back over 400 years and combines historical reenactments with Christian Epiphany symbols. The procession is often accompanied by songs, prayers, and religious readings, symbolizing the journey of the Magi to visit the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem.
La Befana traditions
A beloved gift-bringing figure in Italian folklore, La Befana is also celebrated during the Epiphany. According to tradition, La Befana is an old woman who fills stockings with gifts on the night of January 5th. Children might receive small presents, sweets, or coal, depending on whether they’ve been good or bad.
Experiencing the Epiphany on Lake Como offers a blend of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. The combination of historical festivals, folklore traditions, and the serene winter landscape makes it a memorable time to visit.