Sardinia: New Year in Orgosolo

On 31st December, the streets of Orgosolo come to life with the sounds of children running around in the search of treats. The 'Sa Candelaria' Festival is reminiscent of Halloween as the little visitors knock at the doors of the traditional granite houses hoping for sweets, fruit, biscuits or even money to fill their goodie bags.

This much anticipated event starts early in the morning as the children take their empty sacks up and down the streets. Visitors are welcomed at open doors with a phrase that you will hear all over the town during the festival: A nolla dàzes sa candelarìa (Shall we give you the Candelaria) which refers to the gifts given to the children by the adults.

Almost the entire town takes part in the festival with many families making special bread to give away called 'su coccone'. The bread is made with flour, water and lard and has a distinctive round white shape.

As the day comes to a close and the endless stream of children starts to slow, it is time for the adults to enjoy their own celebrations. Couples who were married during the old year receive visits from their neighbours who come to sing traditional songs, wishing the newlyweds luck and happiness in the forthcoming year. Of course the visits involve a drink and a slice of cake.

Legend has it that these traditional rituals were started not only to bring good luck to the local population but to ensure that poor families had enough food to get them through the winter - a redistribution of wealth to start the New Year.