The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

ITALIAN CUSTOM

FOR THE ITALIANS, CHRISTMAS IS NOT CELEBRATED ON
DECEMBER 25. ON JANUARY 6, LA BEFANA, THE WITCH
COMES TO THE HOUSES AND SHE BRINGS THE GOOD CHILDREN
CANDY AND PRESENTS, AND THE BAD CHILDREN SHE LEAVES
COAL. ALL THE BAKERIES AT THIS TIME MAKE A CANDY
THAT LOOKS LIKE A LUMP OF COAL.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; MARYGROVE COLLEGE ; DETROIT

Date learned: 00001968 FALL