Winter season in Italy is usually a lively, bustling time. Christmas doesn’t dominate the entire season in Italy as it does in some other countries, but December does have a festive feel, with Christmas markets in many towns.
One of the most striking features of Christmas in Italy is the presepe. Presepi are ornamental nativity scenes, frequently expanding to feature whole rural villages complete with wells, bakers and improbable institutions such as the pizza-maker. They are everywhere – under the sea, in fish tanks, in churches, in windows, in blocks of flats. Festivities begin from the 8th December, the holiday of the Immaculate Conception. Immaculate Conception Day is a day when many Italians attend a church mass to honour Mary, whom they believe is immaculate, or “free from sin”. One of the highlights is a celebration led by the Catholic pope in Rome, who kneels in prayer and lays a floral wreath on the statue of the Madonna at the Piazza Mignanelli. In some places there is street entertainment by jugglers and street clowns for the public. Though a public holiday, many shops are open at this time of the year for people to start their Christmas shopping.
The celebrations would be an eye fiesta to beholders and it is suggested that one visits Italy during this time of the year to capture the true essence of an Italian holiday. It is a good idea to hire a car and move around, exploring the festivities in the various regions of Italy. To ensure best travelling facilities, many car rentals are running in Italy, providing car rental services at reasonable prices.
Driving through the streets can get you to explore some real delights. Hiring a car is the best way to explore the Italian treats and breath-taking picturesque Italian valleys and countryside locations. www.car-rental-italy.com provides car rental from a wide range of cars they have on offer like Economy 2 door, Compact 4 door, 9 seat minivans and more at economical prices, making your visit to Italy a memorable one.