The Befana at Villa Pamphili

The Epiphany celebration in the heart of Villa Doria Pamphili

The Befana at Villa Pamphili is the annual appointment that, every January 6th, marks the end of the holiday season in the splendid Italian-style gardens of Villa Doria Pamphili, the largest historic park in Rome. Organized by VIVI Bistrot at their Via Vitellia 102 location in the city's Municipio XII, the event is designed as a special moment for children to immerse themselves in nature, far from the city traffic. In 2026, the festival celebrates its fifth edition, confirming its status as one of the most beloved Epiphany traditions for Roman families.

The morning program

The event takes place during a morning full of surprises, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, with a schedule specifically designed for children:

• 10:30 AM — Welcome for children by the Befana's elves;
• 11:00 AM — Puppet show by Teatro Verde, a historic Roman company specializing in children's theater;
• 12:00 PM — Arrival of the Befana and distribution of stockings filled with treats, courtesy of VIVI.

Everything takes place outdoors, among the park's paths and lawns, with the option to extend the day at the bistrot.

A puppet show by Teatro Verde

The artistic heart of the festival is the puppet show performed by Teatro Verde, a company active in Rome for decades in promoting children's puppet theater. Each edition features a different show: in 2026, the stage hosts "The Sudden Circus," a fun adventure populated by the Befana's helpers, designed to enchant both children and adults in an atmosphere of magic and joy.

VIVI Bistrot and the local connection

The event stems from the commitment of VIVI Bistrot, a Food & Lifestyle brand focused on sustainability and inclusion, which chooses to open its spaces to the community for a free celebration. The initiative is held under the patronage of Rome Capital — Municipio XII and aims to strengthen ties with the neighborhood and Villa Doria Pamphili, one of the green lungs most cherished by Romans. Celebrating childhood, social connection, and tradition while preserving small family rituals is the organizers' declared mission.

Rome and the tradition of the Befana

In the Lazio region, and particularly in Rome, the figure of the Befana is deeply rooted: the old woman who fills children's stockings on the night between January 5th and 6th is the star of events across the city, from Piazza Navona to historic parks. The Villa Pamphili festival brings this folk tradition into a natural, family-friendly setting, offering a peaceful and free alternative to the more crowded celebrations in the city center. It is a simple and authentic way to experience the Epiphany in the municipality of Rome, the heart of the Lazio region.