Epiphany Witches Regatta in Venice
Along the Grand Canal this is an extraordinary regatta with costumes celebrated on Epiphany day. You can see this from 06 January 2006 to 07 January 2006. A fun regatta is among old members of the oldest Venetian rowing society, the Bucintoro. From S. Toma up to Rialto Bridge Fifty men dressed as Befane challenge each other on the main part of the Grand Canal. A gigantic sock hung over the Rialto Bridge for the occasion represents arrival of the Befane. It is one of the most popular traditions of the Italian collective consciousness. Her legend dates back to pre-Christian times. At present, in the popular Christian culture, the Befana brings presents as a reminder of those given to Baby Jesus by the Magi. This very charming old lady flies on a broom bringing a bag stuffed with gifts on the night between the fifth and sixth of January. Then, sliding down the houses chimneys, she stuffs the socks left hanging by the children.