Advent started on December 2nd. Christmas decorations have gone up in Fornoli and Ponte di Serraglio but not yet in Bagni Villa (!).
Yesterday, the traditional Christmas market at Fornoli took place. It’s always on the 8th of December, the feast of the Immaculate Conception. (The Immaculate Conception refers, incidentally, not to the virgin birth of Jesus but to the free-from-original-sin birth of the Virgin Mary).
The Fornoli market extended all the way from the Nottolini Ponte delle Catene to the main road to Barga and it was very well attended. Fortunately, the day was beautifully sunny.
Today, Sunday, 9th December there are three big local events not to be missed:
- The living Christmas crib at Anchiano (definately not to be missed).
- The Christmas nativity scenes itinerary (with a hundred separate cribs) at Montefegatesi. It starts at 11 am and there’s the ‘Joyful angels’ gospel choir concert at 5.30 PM
- The concert at the convent of Saint Francis at Borgo a Mozzano at 5.30 PM given by the Jubilum Jazz choir conducted by Piero Gaddi who is also their piano accompanist and music arranger.
It’s a pity that both concerts are at the same time. I wonder which one I’ll attend.
So much happening now…. If you haven’t received a Christmas card by terrestrial snail mail from me so sorry! But this year I’m only sending them, slightly scrooge-like, to those who have already sent me one. So if you want to receive a card from me do send me one first. Thank you!
(This year’s Christmas tree in Rome’s Piazza Venezia – from which gorgeous city I have recently returned – looking less ‘spelacchiato’ than last year’s effort.)