Rome is preparing for a city-wide celebration of Epiphany,or “La Befana,” on January 6,2026,marking teh traditional end of the christmas season. A full day of events is planned across the capital, from past parades and musical performances to sweet treats and family-amiable activities. This year’s festivities promise a diverse range of experiences, catering to both locals and the expected influx of tourists eager to participate in the centuries-old traditions surrounding the legendary gift-giving witch. Below is a guide to the key events taking place throughout the city.
Rome is set to celebrate the Epiphany, a traditional holiday marking the end of the Christmas season, with a series of events throughout the city on January 6, 2026. The holiday, known as “La Befana,” features the legendary witch who delivers gifts to children, and a variety of festivities are planned for families and visitors alike.
One of the most iconic Epiphany celebrations will take place in Piazza Navona, featuring traditional stalls, candied apples, and a horse carousel. The arrival of La Befana will be a central event, continuing a long-standing Roman tradition. More information about the Piazza Navona event is available here.
A historical and cultural parade, “Viva la Befana,” will begin at 10 a.m. on Via della Conciliazione. The procession will include historical re-enactors, horses, flag throwers, musicians, military bands, and a live nativity scene, culminating with the arrival of the Three Kings and a special Befana created by the “La Sargiatella” association of Mentana. The parade aims to reaffirm and pass on the values associated with the Epiphany. Details about the “Viva la Befana” parade can be found here.
Sweet Treats and Creative Workshops
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For those with a sweet tooth, the Mercato Centrale Roma will host a creative workshop on January 6, allowing children to decorate their own Befana-shaped biscuit stockings with colorful icing and candies. The event offers a unique and tasty way to celebrate the holiday. Further details on the Mercato Centrale workshop are available here.
Musical Celebrations and Family Fun
The Auditorium Parco della Musica will present “La ChiaraStella 2026” on January 5 and 6, featuring the Italian Popular Orchestra and Choir performing traditional Christmas carols inspired by the Franciscan tradition of the nativity. The performance commemorates the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s death. Information about “La ChiaraStella 2026” can be found here.
Villa Pamphilj will also host an Epiphany celebration on January 6, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with elves welcoming children and a puppet show titled “The Circus Arrives Suddenly.” La Befana will then arrive to fill the children’s stockings with treats provided by VIVI. More information on the Villa Pamphilj event is available here.
Treasure Hunts and Closing Events
The Museo delle Carrozze d’Epoca will host a treasure hunt on January 6, challenging children to find La Befana’s missing belongings hidden among the historic carriages. Details about the treasure hunt at the Museo delle Carrozze d’Epoca can be found here.
January 6 also marks the closing day for Christmas villages and markets throughout Rome, offering a final opportunity to experience the holiday atmosphere. A list of Christmas markets in Rome is available here. and villages of Christmas in Rome and surrounding areas are listed here.
Races and Community Events
For those looking for a more active celebration, the 32nd edition of “Corri per la Befana” will take place at the Parco degli Acquedotti, featuring a 10km competitive race and a 3km fun run. More information about “Corri per la Befana” can be found here.
“La Corsa del Giocattolo,” a non-competitive 5km race, will also be held at Villa Borghese on January 6. Participants are asked to bring a new or gently used toy as an entry fee. Details about “La Corsa del Giocattolo” are available here.
The Oasi Park will host “Arriva la Befana – Festa del poliziotto,” a free event organized by the provincial secretariats of Rome and Naples of Consap, offering children a day of fun and treats. More information about the event at Oasi Park can be found here.
Cultural Experiences
Casina di Raffaello will offer creative workshops and storytelling sessions for families and children on January 6. Details about the Casina di Raffaello events are available here.
The Teatro Studio Borgna will conclude its contemporary circus festival, “OPS!,” on January 6 with a performance by Collettivo Flaan. Information about “OPS!” can be found here.
A guided walking tour will explore the history of the Jewish Ghetto, from its origins to the 1943 raid. More information about the walking tour of the Jewish Ghetto is available here.
Another walking tour will take place around Campo dei Fiori, exploring the hidden streets and historical landmarks of the area. Details about the walking tour around Campo dei Fiori can be found here.
