Befana Flight

The Befana Flight in Ruffano

Every year on January 6th, the village of Ruffano, nestled in the heart of Salento in the province of Lecce, bids farewell to the holiday season with one of the most anticipated and cherished events for families: the Befana Flight. On the day of the Epiphany, the friendly old lady makes a spectacular descent from above to toss gifts to the children gathered in the square, creating a moment of wonder and joy that perfectly wraps up the festive period.

A grand finale for InCanto di Natale

The Befana Flight serves as the closing event of InCanto di Natale, the rich program of festivities that brings the historic center of Ruffano to life every evening from December 8th to January 6th. For weeks, the ancient village is transformed with festive lights, Christmas markets, Santa's cottage, artistic papier-mâché nativity scenes, traveling performances, and the Piazza del Gusto featuring local street food. The Epiphany marks the grand finale of this month-long series of initiatives designed for all ages.

The Befana's descent and the Magic Circus

The highlight is the Befana's descent from the sky, made possible by the dedication of local civil protection associations. The event is accompanied by the traveling Magic Circus show, which brings the streets to life with street performers, lights, and music. Every year, the evening draws hundreds of adults and children who crowd the village squares, eyes turned skyward in anticipation of the gifts.

A Salento folk tradition

Rooted in Salento's folk traditions, the Befana Flight combines the charm of the Epiphany with the strong sense of community found in this small town in lower Salento. The event is organized by the V.E.R.A. "Vito Pellegrino" Civil Protection of Aradeo in collaboration with the N.O.V.E.R. Civil Protection Association of Ruffano, the Italian Red Cross (Casarano Committee), and the Fire Brigade, under the coordination of the Municipality of Ruffano. It is a completely free event, showcasing how Christmas traditions continue to thrive in the villages of Puglia.