When it comes to Christmas in Italy, the joy of gift-giving is steeped in rich traditions that vary from region to region. Italian children eagerly await their presents, but the identity of the gift-bringer depends on local customs, history, and folklore. From religious figures like Gesù Bambino and San Nicola to the whimsical La Befana, each region adds its own special touch to the festive season.
In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating stories behind the beloved characters who deliver Christmas magic to Italian homes. Whether you’re a language learner or simply curious about Italian culture, this is a wonderful way to discover more about the traditions that make Christmas in Italy so unique.
Let’s unwrap the magic of Italian Christmas together!

Gesù Bambino (Baby Jesus)
In some regions of northern Italy, especially in areas with historical ties to Germanic traditions, Gesù Bambino (Baby Jesus) is the one bringing Christmas gifts. This tradition has roots in the 1500 when Martin Luther, during the Protestant Reformation, replaced the figure of Saint Nicholas with the Christkind (Christ Child) to emphasise the spiritual essence of Christmas. Gesù Bambino is said to deliver presents quietly on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
This tradition holds deep meaning for many northern Italian families who cherish the religious significance of the season. Coming from the far north of Lombardy, near the Swiss border, I grew up eagerly anticipating gifts from Bambin Gesù (or Gesù Bambino).
In our home, my mother would wait until Christmas Eve to decorate the tree. Once we were asleep, she’d carefully set it up, and by morning, we’d wake to find our single gift—just one for each of us—waiting beneath the beautifully lit tree. I can still vividly recall the joy and wonder of those magical Christmas mornings.
Over the years, however, Bambin Gesù has been largely replaced by Babbo Natale (Father Christmas), reflecting how traditions evolve while still keeping the spirit of the season alive.

San Nicola (Saint Nicholas)
In Italy, San Nicola (Saint Nicholas) has his roots in Puglia, where he is deeply venerated as the patron saint of Bari. Over time, his story and traditions spread across Europe, evolving into Sinterklaas in Dutch culture and eventually into Saint Nicholas and Santa Klaus in English-speaking countries.
Saint Nicholas, celebrated on 6th December, has also a strong presence in some northern Italian regions. Known as the protector of children, he is said to arrive on the night of 5th December, riding his donkey. Children leave oranges, cookies, coffee, red wine, and hay for his donkey as a gesture of gratitude. In return, they find small gifts and treats the next morning.
This isn’t a tradition I grew up with personally, but one I came to learn about over time. It serves as a beautiful testament to the rich cultural diversity that exists among Italy’s regions.
To learn more about the actual origins of San Nicola, read THIS article in Italian.

Santa Lucia (Saint Lucy)
Although Santa Lucia is more widely associated with northern Europe, her role as a gift-bringer is a beloved tradition in some Italian regions. Her feast day on 13th December, especially in certain parts of Italy, such as Lombardy and Veneto, children eagerly await the arrival of Santa Lucia on the night of 12th December.
Another interesting tradition that did not belong to me growing up even if it is also celebrated in our region.
Find out more about this tradition by reading THIS simple article in Italian.
Babbo Natale (Santa Claus)
Babbo Natale, the Italian version of Santa Claus, has grown in popularity over the years, largely influenced by globalisation and commercial culture. He is the familiar figure clad in red, riding his sleigh pulled by reindeer, and delivering gifts on Christmas Eve.
Interestingly, Babbo Natale’s modern image owes much to a mix of traditions, including Saint Nicholas and Father Christmas from Britain. While his red suit became iconic through Coca-Cola advertisements in the 1930s, his Italian name reflects his deep integration into the country’s festive customs.
My children spent their early years in London, so Father Christmas quickly became part of our family’s festive traditions. We created our own mythology around him, reading stories together and embracing the excitement of Christmas Eve as they eagerly awaited his arrival—though, of course, he claimed all the credit for my hard work 😉.
In Italy, Babbo Natale has similarly become the most beloved figure of Christmas, capturing the imagination of children as the holiday’s central symbol.
La Befana
No discussion of Italian gift-bringers is complete without La Befana. This kind old witch is a uniquely Italian figure who visits on the night of 5th January, during the Epiphany. According to legend, she was visited by the Three Wise Men as they searched for the newborn Jesus. Initially hesitant to join their journey, she later regretted her decision and set out to find the child, bringing sweets as gifts.
Since then, La Befana has been roaming the world, delivering presents to children in her quest for forgiveness. She fills stockings with sweets for the well-behaved and coal for those who’ve been naughty. This whimsical tradition brings the holiday season to a close in Italy, leaving children with one final moment of magic.
When we were in London I tried to keep this tradition alive for my children but as there weren’t many others celebrating it it proved really difficult. Now that they live in Italy the presence of Befana is ubiquitous, especially in supermakets! But the tradition is still very much alive and celebrated. For example in Rome with the visit of Befana in Piazza Navona or La Fiera della Befana a Napoli.
Read in Italian all about Befana in this interesting article HERE.
There is also a film with Paola Cortellesi called La Befana Vien di Notte, if you are curious, I leave you the trailer HERE.
A season of unique traditions
From Gesù Bambino and Saint Nicholas to Babbo Natale and La Befana, Italy’s Christmas traditions weave together faith, history, and folklore. Each figure has its own unique story and is celebrated in various regions of Italy, with the exception of Babbo Natale, who is widely embraced across the country. These traditions ensure that the magic of Christmas continues to captivate the hearts of children throughout Italy.
Who brings presents in your home during the holidays? Share with us in the comments!