Want to ring in the New Year like an Italian and wondering how do Italians celebrate New Year's day? As someone who's absolutely in love with Italian celebrations (and any excuse for fun food and fireworks!), let me tell you – nobody does New Year's quite like the Italians. From the most elegant city celebrations to cozy family traditions, I'm excited to share everything you need to know about celebrating Capodanno (New Year's) in Italy!
How to Say 'Happy New Year' in Italian
First things first – let's make sure you can share the joy with locals! The most common way to say "Happy New Year" in Italian is "Buon Anno!" (pronounced "bwon AHN-no"). You might also hear "Felice Anno Nuovo!" (feh-LEE-cheh AHN-no NWOH-voh). Both are perfect, but "Buon Anno" is what you'll hear most often. Practice these phrases now, because trust me – you'll be using them a lot as the clock strikes midnight!
Pro tip: In the days leading up to New Year's, you might hear "Buone Feste" (bwoh-neh FEH-steh), which means "Happy Holidays" and covers both Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Want to meet interesting locals as you make your way through Italy? Get my free guide, How to Connect with Locals, for expert tips on how to bridge connections!
How do Italians Celebrate New Year's Eve?
Italians never pass up an opportunity to celebrate– and they certainly celebrate New Year’s Eve in style! Il Cenone di Capodanno (the big New Year's Eve dinner) is the star of the show, and oh my goodness, you haven't lived until you've experienced one! If you ever experience New Year's Eve with a family in Italy, expect the feast to last for HOURS. We're talking multiple courses of pasta, seafood (lots of seafood – it's considered lucky!), and endless prosecco.
The most traditional dish? Lentils! They're served with cotechino (a special Italian sausage) or zampone (stuffed pig hooves). The lentils supposedly represent coins, bringing wealth in the coming year. Even if you're not superstitious, you’ll want to try this dish (though the pig hooves might not be at the top of your list)!
In the cities, the celebrations are EPIC. Rome's Piazza del Popolo hosts one of the biggest parties, with live music and spectacular fireworks. Venice turns into a winter wonderland with fireworks reflecting off the lagoon (bucket list alert!). And the Renaissance city of Florence lights up the Arno River with a celebration that would make the Medici proud.
Italian Traditions for New Year
Here's where it gets really fun – Italian New Year traditions are both beautiful and quirky! Ever heard of wearing red underwear for good luck? It's a real thing! Italians believe wearing red underwear on New Year's brings good fortune in the coming year. The catch? They should be gifted to you by someone else!
Another fascinating tradition is throwing old things out the window (literally!) to symbolize letting go of the past. Don't worry – this tradition isn't as common as it used to be, but you might still see it in some southern towns. Just maybe wear a helmet if you're walking around Naples on New Year's Eve! 😉
The tradition I love most is making noise at midnight to scare away evil spirits. Whether it's fireworks, pots and pans, or church bells, the sound is incredible. Standing in a piazza at midnight, surrounded by joyful Italians and spectacular fireworks – it's pure magic!
How do Italians Celebrate New Year's Day?
While many cultures spend January 1st nursing hangovers, Italians keep the celebration going! Many families gather for another big meal (because of course they do!). Some brave souls even participate in the "First Swim of the Year" – jumping into cold waters from Venice to Viareggio!
A lovely tradition I've discovered is the practice of "primo sole" – seeking out the first sunrise of the new year. Whether you're watching it rise over the Dolomites or sparkle across the Mediterranean, it's a beautiful way to welcome the year ahead.
Many cities host New Year's Day concerts, especially in Rome and Venice. The Teatro La Fenice in Venice has a gorgeous New Year's concert that's broadcast throughout Italy. If you can get tickets, it's an unforgettable experience!
Want to start your year with some culture? Many museums are open on January 1st, and they're usually less crowded than usual. Picture starting your year gazing at Botticelli's Primavera or wandering through the Vatican Museums without the usual crowds!
Ready to experience an unforgettable Italian New Year? Start planning now – the best accommodations and restaurants book up quickly! Whether you want to dance all night in Rome, watch fireworks over Venice's canals, or enjoy a cozy family celebration in a Tuscan village, Italy offers something magical for everyone!
Creative Edge Travel helps people experience Italy’s culture and traditions in a more meaningful way. If you’re curious about our small group trips or custom trip planning, get in touch!
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