The Feast of the Epiphany is a liturgically significant day in all of Christianity as it is said that it was on this day the Three Wise Men found baby Jesus laying in the manger. They had followed the star, and to acknowledge His birth, presented the baby with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In Italy, Greece, Poland, and Ireland, Catholics, along with other Christian faiths, observe the Epiphany on January 6th each year. In other countries, including the United States, Catholics observe the celebration of the Epiphany on the Sunday between January 2nd and 8th. Whether you celebrate on January 6, 2016, or January 3, 2016, make a reservation to visit one of the best Italian restaurants Orlando, Christini’s Ristorante Italiano, and enjoy an authentic Italian meal in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
In Italy, the Epiphany is eagerly anticipated not only for its religious significance but also for the appearance of La Befana. The legend of La Befana is interwoven with the story of the three wise men in search of the Christ child. They came across the home of a lonely old woman who was busy sweeping and cleaning her home for she had nothing else to do since the death of her husband. Her child had died at a very early age. All she did was clean to pass the time. The Kings asked her to join them on their quest, but she insisted she was too busy and did not join them on their travels. As the night wore on, La Befana had second thoughts and decided to quickly pack up a bag of sweets and gifts to give to the baby. She also brought her broom along thinking that she could help out the new mother. She followed the same bright star as the Wise Men but somehow got lost. Angels appeared to her and gave flight to her broom to help her on her way. She traveled far and wide but never found where the baby lay. To this day, she travels the world searching everywhere for the Baby Jesus, leaving gifts and sweets to all the children who have behaved during the year. It is said that if children have been naughty, she will leave them a lump of coal. Sound familiar? La Befana can certainly give Santa Claus a run for the money!
The foods associated with The Feast of the Epiphany are traditional to each family. Italians enjoy several courses from appetizers to desserts. What’s keeping you from enjoying the best of the best restaurants in Orlando? Call Christini’s Ristorante Italiano now to make reservations and celebrate the Epiphany in authentic Italian style.
