More Than a Morning Ritual
In Italy, coffee is part of everyday life – but during the holidays, it becomes something more: a way to celebrate, to welcome friends and family, and to mark the season. Whether it’s a winter espresso after a Christmas feast or a cooling coffee dessert during Ferragosto, coffee plays a starring role in our biggest moments
Christmas - Warmth in Every Cup
The holiday season often calls for caffè corretto – espresso “corrected” with a splash of grappa, sambuca, or brandy. It’s served after long, multi-course Christmas dinners, warming both body and spirit. If you’ve never had Sambuca, you’re missing out – Sambuca in a shot glass with a single coffee bean is perfection
In some homes, you’ll also find spiced coffee with cinnamon or cloves, paired with panettone or pandoro
Easter - Sweet Pairings
At Easter, coffee is the perfect companion to colomba pasquale – a soft, dove-shaped cake filled with candied fruit and almonds. Some families even dip slices directly into their morning cappuccino

Ferragosto - Cool and Refreshing
Ferragosto, Italy’s big summer holiday on August 15th, often means beach trips and outdoor feasts. Coffee takes on a chilled form here: caffè freddo (sweetened espresso served over ice) or granita di caffè (a semi-frozen coffee dessert topped with whipped cream). While Ferragosto is not technically observed here in America, this can be perfect for any summertime gathering: 4th of July, Memorial Day, or just to properly kick off your summer vacation – your own mini-Ferragosto

New Year’s - A Strong Start
On New Year’s Eve, coffee is the bridge between a late dinner and the midnight celebrations. Espresso helps keep the party going, sometimes paired with rich chocolates or biscotti
Bringing Italian Holiday Coffee Traditions Home
ou don’t have to be in Italy to celebrate like an Italian:
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Try making caffè corretto after your next festive meal
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Pair coffee with seasonal desserts — panettone, colomba, or even tiramisù
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Experiment with temperature — hot, iced, or frozen — depending on the occasion
Because in Italy, coffee isn’t just for waking up — it’s for making life’s best moments even sweeter
