Dual Language: On Celebrating All Souls’ Day in Sicily

All Saints’ Day is a Christian holiday celebrated on November 1 in honor of all saints, and a national holiday in Italy. It is followed by All Souls’ Day, which commemorates loved ones who have passed away.

Different traditions are associated with these holidays, depending on the region. One such tradition was shared with us by two Sicilian colleagues, who said they experienced it themselves, before it was gradually lost.

According to this tradition, it was believed that, on the night between November 1 and 2, the dead would visit their loved ones by bringing gifts to the children. The gifts were placed in a wicker basket that the children put under the bed. As night fell, the dead would fill the basket with toys and sweets and hide it in a different part of the house; excited children would wake up early in the morning to look for the basket.  

One of the most common treats found in the basket, traditionally associated with the Day of the Dead in Sicily, is frutta martorana, colorful sweets made of almond paste expertly crafted to look like fruits.

Later in the morning, children and their families would reciprocate the visit by going to the cemetery.

The tradition served to strengthen family bonds, providing a connection for children to family members who were no longer with them. Until a few decades ago, this was the only celebration of the year when children received presents. As there are now many gift-giving occasions throughout the year, this tradition has lost its strength over time.