Easter Monday in Italy

Easter Monday, also known as La Pasquetta in Italy is a very big part of the Italian Easter celebration. The day is celebrated by visiting friends, going on picnics or taking a short one-day holiday out of the city. It is a festive but also a rather meaningful day because this day commemorates the day, as mentioned in the bible, the risen Savior, Jesus, met with his disciples to fulfill His prophecy. Many will celebrate by going to Mass to start the day, but the latter part will be devoted to family, friends, food, and fun.

A typical Italian dinner will usually include lamb as it symbolizes sacrifice, and this symbolism runs ages deep or grilled meats. And if possible, the meal should take place fuori porta, or outside in the country. In Tuscany where my Father was born and where I still have relatives in the splendid little hamlet, Montefollonico, they might enjoy the lamb alla cacciatori along with a pasta, (I would surely vote for Pici), boiled eggs, Pastiera or Pizza Rustica  followed by Colomba enjoyed with a glass of their homemade Vin Santo.

My family is blessed to have a special bottle, homemade and straight from Montefollonico, gifted by my cousin Andrea, the Vin Santo maker. Chocolate eggs are a big tradition and are generally given to the little ones. After dinner, the little ones might be offered a treat with a walk to the local gelateria for their favorite scoop. But on Tuesday, for most of Italy it is business as usual.

However you spend the day, Buona Pasquetta!