Page 6 - Italian American Herald - August 2022

6 ITALIANAMERICANHERALD.COM | AUGUST2022 ITALIAN-AMERICANHERALD CULTURE
Ferragosto: August is when all of Italy seems to go on vacation
Continued from front page
For modern-day Italy, the 15th of August recognizes the middle of the Italian summer and the unofficial start of the holiday season.
Throughout Italy and parts of Europe, August is recognized widely as simply a
time to rest, a time to break away from daily burdens and the crowds of the cities. Both young and old can be seen flocking to the nearest beach or traveling into the mountains to escape the sweltering heat. It may come
as a surprise, but August in Italy is truly a beautiful time.
The notion of slowing down and relishing in the droning but intricate details of a long mid-summer day is an art form. In Italy that art form is perfected and in August can be seen up close and throughout history, even in films. There is a harmonious yet melancholy feeling strolling the streets of Rome in mid-August, or any other major city in Italy for that matter. A feeling of contemplation and quietness that can replenish the soul,
as depicted so brilliantly in the Italian film “Mid-August Lunch” by Gianni Di Gregorio.
A good portion of shops shut down for upwards of an entire month, restaurants shutter their doors, transit options seem to become even more limited than usual, and your desire to live “la dolce vita” is put on the backburner. Signs of “chiuso per ferie” can be seen in many a shop window.
Still, many establishments remain open in
larger tourist cities, in particular Rome. Not all shops and restaurants will be closed, nor will most of the larger tourist attractions. I promise you will find an open Gelato shop somewhere in Rome in August. The onset
of the pandemic shuttered many Italian businesses for almost two years straight, so the recovery period is still well under way. This will bode well for any tourists who have unknowingly booked their Italian getaway during the month of August.
Tourist inconveniences aside, Ferragosto holds much deeper meaning than simply
a month-long holiday. Known as “il giorno dell’Assunta” or “the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary” for Catholics worldwide, massive religious processions and celebrations can be found throughout Italy recognizing this sacred Christian holiday. August serves as a time not only of rest but reflection alongside those closest to you.
Taking a month long “vacation” is not a broadly accepted concept for us here. But
as Italian Americans we should embrace
the month of August with excitement and enjoyment. Ferragosto is a part of our culture. It embodies essential fundamentals we cherish as Italian Americans in our daily lives. Family, religion, reflection, rest and ultimately rejuvenation are at the heart of Ferragosto. So enjoy these upcoming days, no matter where you find yourself. As for me, I’ll see you in September! IAH
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