The Children's Christmas

The Children's Christmas in Colli sul Velino

In the small town of Colli sul Velino, overlooking the Velino valley in the province of Rieti, the Christmas season is all about the children. "The Children's Christmas" is the Christmas play performed by the preschool and primary school students of the village, who are part of the Leonessa Comprehensive Institute. It is a highly anticipated event that transforms the town square and school premises into a charming community theater every December.

A festival that rediscovers traditions

The performance is more than just a school play; it is a moment for the entire village to come together. In an edition dedicated to "old-fashioned games," the children gave voice to toys forgotten in Santa's attic—teddy bears, porcelain dolls, rag dolls, toy soldiers, and puppets—who were bored because the little ones preferred electronic games. It is a tender and educational story designed to rediscover the simplicity and value of folk traditions, deeply cherished by a community that takes pride in its identity.

Nativity scenes and community

The play is often accompanied by other local events, such as the inauguration of the Nativity Scene Exhibition and the nativity competition, where works created by the residents are displayed along the village streets. The day is attended not only by families but also by representatives from the Municipality of Colli sul Velino and neighboring towns, highlighting the close bond between the small communities of the Rieti Alta Sabina.

Organization

The event is a collaboration between the school, the Pro Loco APS of Colli sul Velino, and the Municipality of Colli sul Velino. Participation is free, and the initiative is aimed at children accompanied by their parents and grandparents, as well as the entire local population. It is part of a broader calendar of Christmas festivities in the village, which throughout December and up to Epiphany includes carols, markets, a brass band concert, a living nativity scene, and the Pro Loco's Befana celebration.

An authentic Christmas in Lazio

Far from the big city lights, "The Children's Christmas" tells the story of a genuine, lesser-known Lazio, made of intimate villages and communities that choose to celebrate the holidays by focusing on their children. For those visiting the province of Rieti in winter, it is a chance to breathe in the sincere, cozy atmosphere of a traditional village Christmas.