This day also marks the beginning of the Christmas season here. It is the day when many Italians traditionally put out their personal creche (presepe, in Italian) in their homes, as well as a Christmas tree and other decorations. An annual construction of an elaborate, life-sized communal creche also is traditional in many neighborhoods.

To share the spirit of the season, here’s the official video of Irene Grandi singing Bianco Natale (“I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas”) from her newly-released Christmas album.