The Legend of La Befana comes alive in Sonoma

The Sonoma-Greve Sister Cities Committee is hosting “The Legend of La Befana Storytime” at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4 at the Sonoma Valley Library, 755 W. Napa St. There will be a sweet treat for children in attendance.

It is a free event, open to all. Carol Carr-Colglazier, a local storyteller, will bring the Italian Christmas tale to life for children of all ages.

According to Italian legend, La Befana, a witch-like woman riding on a broom, refused to join the Three Wise Men on their journey to see baby Jesus. When she regrets her decision, she sets out to bring gifts to the child but never finds him. Instead, she leaves gifts for other children.

Italian children leave out their shoes or put up stockings for La Befana to fill on Jan. 5, Epiphany Eve. The Feast of the Epiphany is a national holiday in Italy commemorating the 12th day of Christmas when the Three Wise Men arrived at the manger bearing gifts for baby Jesus.

The traditional Christmas holiday season in Italy lasts through Epiphany.

Greve in Chianti is Sonoma’s Sister City in the Tuscany region of Italy. The committee hosts Italian cultural activities including lectures, social events, student exchanges, delegation visits, dinners and cultural events.

sonomasistercitiesassociation.org.