November Traditions

By: Effetto Italy  On: November 17, 2017  In: Italian Culture 

As an American living in Rome, one of the questions I get asked the most at this time of year is:

“Do you miss being in the USA for Thanksgiving?”

The answer is, of course, yes and no. Yes, I miss my extended family back home. But no, there is no place I would rather be than in Italy during the month of November. The crowds are fewer, the temperature is mild, and should I want to visit other areas in the country, the hotel rates are much more affordable.

But one of my favorite parts, and one that is truly unique to Italy, is the plethora of Sagre (food festivals) that take place from the North to the South. Are you a foodie and a truffle aficionado? Head to Alba for white truffles. A lover of meat? Parma in Emilia Romagna offers salami and sausage competitions every weekend. There are wine festivals abound in Puglia. Our course, our family favorite is the celebration of the chestnut…which is very popular in Campania.

From a travel planning perspective, adding a Sagra to any type of program, whether a gastronomic tour, a corporate incentive or leisure weekend is a great way to bring Italy’s local culture to life. And while they do happen all year long, it’s the November ones that make me feel better about missing my aunt’s pumpkin pie.

Enjoy the Thanksgiving season!

A presto,
Jessica