In Italy, there is no Santa Claus. La Befana, a witch on a broom, brings the presents. The story goes that the wise men asked for directions to Bethlehem, but an old woman refused to help because she was too busy. Later she had a change of heart, but couldn't find them to help. Now she must roam the world looking for the Christ child to atone for her sins, and bringing presents and sacks of ashes to the children. In case you miss her on Christmas, don't worry, she flies through on the eve of the twelfth day of Christmas, January 6th, otherwise known as Epiphany. Buon Natale! E' arrivata la Befana
