Ring in the New Year the Italian Way!

Author

Tony Silvestri, Member of the Italian American One Voice Coalition

New Year’s Eve in Italy, or La Festa di San Silvestro, is nothing short of magical. The night brims with traditions that mix old superstitions, family warmth, and festive fun. Here’s a peek into how Italians say “arrivederci” to the old year and “ciao” to the new!

Red for Luck (and Love!)
Donning red underwear isn’t just for fashion—it’s a time-honored Italian tradition believed to bring good fortune and romance in the coming year. So, if you’re in Italy on December 31st, don’t be surprised to see lingerie stores showcasing a sea of red in their displays.

Feasting Italian Style
The centerpiece of the evening is, of course, the feast. Italians sit down to a lavish dinner. Lentils, symbolizing wealth and prosperity (they resemble coins, after all), are a must. Pair them with cotechino (a large, juicy pork sausage) or zampone (stuffed pig’s trotter), and you’ve got a plate full of delicious good fortune!

Out with the Old
In some regions, people literally throw the old year out—by tossing unwanted items out of their windows! While this tradition is fading (and might not be great for the car below), it’s a reminder to start fresh and leave negativity behind.

Fireworks and Prosecco
No Italian New Year’s celebration is complete without fireworks lighting up the night sky. As the clock strikes midnight, glasses of bubbly Prosecco are raised high, and the joyous shouts of “Buon Anno!” echo in the streets.

Whether it’s through feasting, fireworks, or some lucky red undies, Italians know how to welcome the new year with style, love, and a sprinkle of superstition. The Italian American One Voice Coalition wishes you felice Capodanno!