There is an unwritten rule that has always marked the time in Italian homes: “the Epiphany all holidays take away.” However, according to the most authentic tradition, dismantling the Christmas tree and crib on January 6 or 7 means breaking the natural flow of the holidays. In fact, an ancient holiday, now almost forgotten, extends the time of “closing” well beyond that date.
The festivities according to ancient tradition continue and it is right to keep the decorations so as not to draw misfortune upon oneself according to ancient beliefs.
Stop. Leave crib and decorations still or you will attract jinx
While malls and cities begin to turn off the lights as early as dawn on Jan. 7, religious and peasant tradition calls for taking it slow. Indeed, there is an “extra time” of Christmas, rooted in the celebration of Candlemas. This holiday, which falls on February 2, marks exactly 40 days since the birth of Jesus and, according to ancient ritual, signifies the true moment when the light of Christmas gives way to the promise of spring.
The word Candlemas refers to candlelight. Candel-ora: the day of the candles and as mentioned above marks the 40 days since the birth of Jesus as well as commemorating the presentation of Jesus to the Temple and the purification of Mary. During the celebration, candles are blessed, symbolizing Christ as the light that illuminates the nations.
When to remove crib and tree
Tree and crib can be put away at different times, but then what is your hurry on the 7th to pack it all up? It is so nice to have the lights the colors of Christmas in the house! According to tradition, the nativity scene could be taken down on January 11, the date that marks the Baptism of the Lord. Or on February 2 ( Candlemas) along with the tree. Let’s say it depends on the customs of each family whether to respect the traditions or get rid of everything, box it up and put it back in the basement for the next year.
The “curse” of Epiphany: why haste can attract jinxes
According to some folk beliefs still alive in several regions of Italy, dismantling the crib and Christmas tree on the evening of Epiphany brings bad luck. But why?
- Light interrupted: the tree and candles of the nativity scene represent the light that overcomes the darkness of winter. Putting them out too early means leaving the house “in the dark” in the coldest month of the year.
- Respect for cycles: tradition dictates that the nativity figures remain at the place of birth until the Presentation in the Temple on February 2. Interrupting this cycle ahead of time could draw negative energies on home life for the year just begun.
What about YOU have already taken everything down or are you following the traditions?