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Buone Feste from Istituto Mondo Italiano Celebrate the joy, culture, and flavors of Italy this holiday season with us!
Cari amici of Istituto Mondo Italiano, As the year comes to a close, we send you our warmest wishes for safe, peaceful, and joyful holidays, filled with family, friendship, beauty, and—of course—Italianità. This season invites us to reflect on traditions, stories, and connections that travel across oceans and generations. I am delighted to share my favorite holiday gems with you. The Rockefeller Christmas Tree: An Italian-American Beginning Few holiday symbols are as iconic as the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, but its origins are beautifully humble—and Italian. In 1931, during the Great Depression, Italian immigrant construction workers building Rockefeller Center pooled their money to erect a modest Christmas tree, decorating it with handmade garlands. It was an act of hope, solidarity, and community. What began as a simple gesture by Italian immigrants has grown into one of the world’s most beloved holiday traditions—an enduring reminder of resilience and shared joy. WATCH NARRATED STORY HERE! A Roman Treasure: Il Presepe dei Netturbini Perhaps you have to be a Roman to be familiar with one of the most touching yet lesser-known nativity scenes is Il Presepe dei Netturbini—the Nativity created and displayed by the city’s sanitation workers. Simple, heartfelt, and deeply Roman, this presepe honors everyday labor, humility, and dignity. It reminds us that the spirit of Christmas lives not only in grand monuments, but also in the quiet devotion of ordinary people—values that resonate deeply within Italian culture. WATCH VIDEO HERE! STRUFOLI or STRUFFOLI? Little golden bites of a Neapolitan Christmas—tender dough fried until just crisp, then lovingly coated in warm honey and finished with colorful sprinkles. More than a sweet, they are a tradition passed from hands to hands, made around crowded kitchen tables where stories are shared, laughter fills the room, and generations come together. Each bite tastes of family, celebration, and the simple joy of being home for the holidays.Once mom passed away, and grandma was long time gone, my sister and I attempted to make strufoli with my 3-year-old nephew at the time.Now at 18 years of age, once I return home, he "books" himself rightaway for a strufoli session with Zia Viviana. We watch home, reminiscing of when he was that little and we carry on the family tradition.WATCH HOME VIDEO HERE! The art of entertaining - beautifully Susan Gravely, Founder of Vietri returned to The Italian Radio Hour with "Italy in a Glass", an exploration of the Italian ritual of aperitivo, where cocktails, mocktails, and small bites set the stage for festive gatherings. Inspired by her own experiences in Italy, Gravely shares the art of entertaining Italian-style, blending personal stories with time-tested recipes and tips from her Italian friends. IWith stunning photography that brings Italy’s vibrant spirit to life, Gravely invites readers to savor the joy of Italian hospitality and create their own memorable moments with loved ones. WATCH INTERVIEW HERE! Redefining Italian Identity - Distinguished Professor, Dean of the John Calandra Institute in NY, and one of the leading figures in Italian American studies. my guest Prof. Anthony Julina Tamburri joined me to discuss his reflections on the evolution of Italian identity in today’s multicultural landscape. We explored language, representation, diaspora, and the personal stories that have shaped his intellectual journey. It’s an engaging, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.WATCH INTERVIEW HERE! ITALIAN CLASSES - WINTER SEMESTER Start the new year alla grande! Our Italian Language Classes are open for enrollment. Whether you’re a beginner or brushing up your skills, our small, interactive classes will help you speak Italian confidently and with flair. Winter semester are both open for registration here! LA BEFANA IS COMING TO TOWN - Jan 11th.After making her yearlyapperance on Italian TV, la Befana will hold her yearly party at Istituto Mondo Italiano. for a day of fun, and surprises for all children with gifts and story time. Make sure to REGISTER HERE for the Jan 11th event as space is limited! ITALY on a Plate - Cooking Classes Dive into the flavors of ITALY with one of our cooking class exploring the traditions of foods from all over Italy. Lots of classes to choose from or GIFT one to a loved one. BROWSE OUR COOKING CLASSES HERE! Gift Certificates available Penguins Italian Heritage Night January 8th Join us for a fun night with family and friends as we celebrate Italian Heritage Night with the Pittsburgh Penguins! Lower Bowl: $81 | Upper Bowl: $40 Free Italian Hockey Jersey (while supplies last!) Don’t wait — tickets sell fast! For discounted ticket purchases, CLICK HERE Buone Feste from Istituto Mondo Italiano Celebrate the joy, culture, and flavors of Italy this holiday season with us! Whether you're learning Italian, shopping for unique gifts, or joining our festive gatherings, there’s always something special waiting for everyone. ISTITUTO MONDO ITALIANO | 7604 Charleston Avenue | Pittsburgh, PA 15218 US
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