While globalisation sees the world become smaller, the opportunities we have to learn from different countries and embrace new celebrations only continue to grow. As the party industry continues to become more multi-cultural and inclusive, we decided to take a virtual trip to find out more about a number of key territories and their local customs. Our round-the-world journey sees us drop in on the USA, Italy, Holland, Poland and Spain to find out more.
Italian tradition is filled with festivals which celebrate saints, holidays and important events in Italian history. New Year’s Eve is one of the most important celebrations in Italy, although carnival is easily the most elaborate celebration; a two-week party which is marked by parties, parades and masquerade balls. Widmann’s national sales manager, Lucio Freri gives us the lowdown.
“Italy has a lot to celebrate – so it’s not surprising that there are a lot of Italian national holidays! Each region, city and town has its own holidays (often having to do with local saints), but there are a number of national holidays, too. Each region, city and country of Italy has its own traditions and customs which are remembered with specific festivals or ceremonies. They include: Feast of the Patron Saint, New Year, Epiphany, Carnival, Easter, Easter Monday, Liberation Day, Labour Day, Italian Republic Holiday, Assumption of Mary, Halloween, All Saints, Immaculate Conception, Christmas, Saint Stephen.
In the short term, certainly any type of holiday cannot be celebrated due to COVID-19.. Over time, the health situation will improve and, combined with responsible behaviour, it will be possible to celebrate again.
The party trade here has been hit hard. We know with absolute certainty that the situation will return to normal, and the normal standard of living will resume. Life is strewn with obstacles, the current pandemic is one of these that, however, with the will of all we can get out stronger than before.”
The Italian based party, balloon and costume sector has a large volume of individual manufacturers including Widmann, Grabo, Gemar, Balloon World Store, Rifco and many more.
Top: The Venice Carnival in Italy is a world-renowned event.
