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If I close my eyes, I can vividly recall the emotions, aromas, and flavors of the various holidays from my childhood both in Italy and Philadelphia, to which I immigrated as a child. For Italians, holidays make up an important part of the family fabric and traditions that define us. Although I am enamored with all the holidays, my favorite has alwa...

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For many people taking a trip to Europe in the winter is all about visiting the many and diverse Christmas markets. They’re the best place to get a feel for the local traditions, sample the local delicacies, and see the work of local artisans. Italy’s regional diversity also means that the Christmas market in each location will be full of surprises...

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Italy's capital has been named the best place on the Continent for a festive break. When most people think of Rome, the first images that come to mind are probably of the Colosseum or Forum in the high Italian summer.  While the historical city is the perfect place to visit for fans of drinking spritzes outside late into the summer's evening, it's...

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There is a big heart that has been celebrating Italy, Christmas, children and the musical traditions of our country for almost twenty years in New York. It does so with commitment, courage, talent, and an infinite love and pride for its Italian roots. It is the heart of Cristina Fontanelli, artist, singer, producer, who every year in December organ...

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Are you looking for some original ideas to plan exciting Christmas trips to Italy and to enjoy a pleasant stay admiring historical nativity scenes and enchanting markets? During the whole year, The Christmas holidays represent one of the most favourable and desired occasions to relax and enjoy a fantastic holiday in the company of relatives, friend...

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It all started when I was 25 years old, in the spring of 1972. The perks of my job at Temple University’s Athletic Department included my use of the facilities on a regular basis. One particular lunch hour, I decided to go out to the tennis courts and practice hitting backhands against the big green wall outside of McGonigle Hall. After about a hal...

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What do two popes, the actor Terence Hill, and Doctors without Borders have in common? Each of them has had the honor of lighting the world’s largest Christmas tree, proudly displayed since 1981 in the small Umbrian town of Gubbio in Italy. Perhaps not exactly what you imagine a Christmas tree to look like, this one is a display of more than 700 li...

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Celebrating the 50th Anniversary, the North End Athletic Association will bring Santa to visit the residents of the North End. Santa will arrive by helicopter on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022, at 12:30 pm, at the Christopher Columbus Park on Atlantic Avenue, Boston. Miss Massachusetts Scarlet Ramirez, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Wally and Tessie of the Bos...

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Unlike the United States, that generally recognizes Thanksgiving as the day that ushers in the nation’s Christmas holiday season, in Italy “the season opener” can vary depending where in Italy you are, it can be anywhere from the first Sunday of Advent, which this year fell on Nov. 28, Saint Nicholas Day on Dec. 6 or Dec. 8, the Feast of the Immacul...

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Rome's popular Befana market returns to Piazza Navona this Christmas, running from 1 December until 6 January 2023. The event, a traditional fixture on Rome's Christmas calendar, was cancelled for the last two years due to the covid pandemic. This year the city published tenders to assign 22 operating licenses to stall-holders, with the goal of fil...

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