Befana as delighted parade participants join in the cacophony. Sometimes, the Befanas dance with parade goers and dust down the willing as parade goers walk by. There are poems about Befana, which are known in slightly different versions throughout Italy. Here is one of the versions: "La Befana vien di notte"<br> "Con le scarpe tutte rotte"<br> "Col vestito alla romana"<br> "Viva, Viva La Befana!" The English translation is: "The Befana comes by night"<br> "With her shoes all tattered and torn"<br> "She comes dressed in the Roman way"<br> "Long live the Befana!" Another version is given in a poem by Giovanni Pascoli:
Christmas traditions need a bit of coaching. The Star Boys sing carols and are given a treat for their help. The feast begins with the appearance of the first star. The meal is followed by the exchange of gifts. The remainder of the evening is given to stories and songs around the Christmas tree. In some areas of the country, children are taught that "The Little Star" brings the gifts. As presents are unwrapped, carollers may walk from house to house receiving treats along the way. Christmas Eve ends with Pasterka, the Midnight Mass at the local church. The tradition commemorates the