Like many around the world, the Italians celebrate the New Year on January first, which marks the start of the year in the Gregorian calendar. On December 31, a huge festival called La Festa di San Silvestro kicks off the New Year. Exactly who was San Silvestro (Saint Sylvester) you might wonder? Thirty-third pope of Rome, the saint died on December 31, 335. Credited with converting Rome from a pagan to a Christian mecca, San Silvestro is also known as the saint who ushers us (both body and spirit) from the past to future possibilities.

Italians commemorate the end of the year with extensive fireworks both publicly and privately and (of course!) a large dinner (“cenone“). Dishes normally include Risotto in Bianco (white risotto with prosecco), lentils (which symbolize good luck and fortune — like black eye peas in the American South), and Zampone or Cotechino (sausage). Cotechino is a rich pork sausage boiled over low heat for hours that can be stuffed into a pit trotter to become “Zampone”, or pig foot. Again, this is said to bring good luck (rich meat = rich life). Raisins are often sprinkled over the meal, a practice which again, is said to bring good fortune to the family. And of course, plenty of prosecco or other vino spumante is consumed!

On New Year’s day, the Italian media reflects on the events of the past year and previews plans for the upcoming year. There is no small amount of superstition in the Italian New Year, especially as you head south. A favorite tradition is the firing of Christmas logs, which is said to cast away evil spirits and invite Mary in with newborn baby Jesus. Another one of the oldest traditions is the tossing of clothes, pots and pans out of the window to symbolize the coming of a new year. Oh, and don’t forget — Italians don’t want to get caught without a pair of red underwear on New Year’s — yet another good luck symbol!

Naples is known for having perhaps the biggest and best New Year’s celebrations and fireworks in the country. Popular rock and pop bands perform before the fireworks display, and a big dancing celebration is also held in cities like Milan, Palermo and Bologna. Sometimes, these events will even be televised to view later. Smaller cities often congregate and build a bonfire in the middle of the town square to revisit in the morning. Private parties are often held, and along with dancing, games like Tombola (similar to bingo) are popular. Seaside towns likewise enter the New Year with a bang — in the form of horns from passing boats and ships.

If you’re planning to celebrate New Year’s in Italy, clearly one of the best places to do so is Rome. Celebrations are centered around Piazza del Popolo, where large bands play well into the night and dance competitions are held in the square. In the morning, while parents are sleeping, children can be entertained by performers and acrobats while the city wakes up to a new year. So don your red undies, pop the champagne cork, and have a Happy New Year!.

Oh, and don’t forget…only 3 days left to take advantage of our end-of-year savings on Adagio’s spring 2017 trips. See below, travelers!