On Epiphany, Naples closes the festive season with a show children look forward to all year. In Piazza del Plebiscito, firefighters dressed as the Befana, the kindly Epiphany witch, abseil down the façade of the Royal Palace, sack on their backs, in front of thousands of families and tourists.
Once on the ground, the Befana hands out sweets to the little ones, together with city officials. The event is organised by the City of Naples with the provincial fire brigade and has become a firm tradition that goes ahead even in the rain.
The 2027 time has not been announced yet. We suggest arriving early so children get a good view of the descent, and then making the most of the special museum openings on Epiphany.