There are so many of traditions celebrated here in Roccella Ionica! Many of them are connected to the Catholic religion. I got to celebrate a holiday called the Immaculate Conception, which is the beginning of the Christian story of Jesus Christ. This holiday is celebrated with special food, music and stories that are shared with the community. I got to meet many different people from Roccella, from kids selling nativity sets for a hospital fundraiser, to retired people meeting up with their friends! It was an amazing experience, and I can’t wait to celebrate even more as Christmas gets closer.
I learned about the traditions around the Immaculate Conception. Every year on December 8th, believers in the Catholic Church celebrate this holiday to remember the beginning of the story of Jesus Christ, whose birthday is celebrated on Christmas. The Immaculate Conception is very connected to Christmas—and it seems like the entire month of December is a big Christmas celebration! Fun fact: My birthday is on Christmas day too!
Each town in Italy has their own way of celebrating the holiday season. In Roccella Ionica, there are a few different things that happen every year.
