Waiting for the Befana — The Befana's Descent from the Civic Tower

The Befana flies over Casalbordino

There is a moment every January when the historic center of Casalbordino, in the province of Chieti, stops to look up. It is when the Befana, suspended in the sky, glides slowly down the facade of the Civic Tower to reach the crowd of children waiting for her in Piazza Umberto I. "Waiting for the Befana" has quickly become one of the most beloved Epiphany events in the Vastese area, drawing families from across the Abruzzo region.

A tradition born from the village

The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Casalbordino in collaboration with the "Madonna dell'Assunta" Civil Protection and with the patronage of the Municipality. The scenic descent of the old lady from the tower—completed in 1901 and a symbol of the fortified village—is made possible by the technical support of the Gissi speleological group, who accompanies the Befana during her descent and helps her distribute sweets to the little ones once she lands among the crowd.

An afternoon of magic for families

The descent is the centerpiece of an entire afternoon of entertainment designed for children: shows, dances, colors, and surprises transform the square into a small Epiphany village. In recent editions, the festival has hosted the traveling show of the Enchanted Circus, featuring stage tricks and effects that keep the audience breathless until the arrival of the stocking.

Why it is worth attending

More than just a festival, "Waiting for the Befana" is a collective ritual that marks the end of the Christmas holidays in Casalbordino: a way to experience the Epiphany in the square, free of charge, immersed in the atmosphere of an Abruzzo historic center. For visitors, it is also an opportunity to discover this village on the Adriatic side of Abruzzo, just a few kilometers from the sea and the famous Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Miracoli.