The History of the Feast of the Seven Fishes: A Christmas Eve Tradition 🐟
As the holiday season approaches, many Italian-American families look forward to one of the most beloved traditions: The Feast of the Seven Fishes. But where did this festive, seafood-filled meal come from, and why does it hold such a special place in Christmas Eve celebrations?
The Feast of the Seven Fishes (or La Vigilia) is a long-standing Italian tradition that celebrates Christmas Eve with a meal focused on fish and seafood. It’s rooted in the Catholic tradition of fasting and abstinence from meat before Christmas Day, offering a symbolic reflection of spiritual preparation.
𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝘀
While the exact origins of the "seven" fish are debated, the number is believed to have spiritual significance, often representing the seven sacraments of the Church or the seven days of creation. It’s a celebration not just of food but also of faith and family.
𝗜𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻-𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
The tradition has its roots in Southern Italy, particularly in coastal regions where fresh seafood was abundant. As Italian immigrants arrived in America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they brought this tradition with them. Over time, the Feast of the Seven Fishes became a hallmark of Italian-American culture—a way to connect with heritage while celebrating the holidays with loved ones.
𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗩𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘁𝘆
Although the number of dishes can vary (some families serve 9, 13, or even more!), the meal typically includes a variety of seafood like baccalà (salted cod), fried calamari, shrimp scampi, stuffed squid, clams oreganata, and more. Each dish is an expression of Italian culinary traditions, passed down through generations.
Today, the Feast of the Seven Fishes has evolved beyond a religious tradition to become a cultural celebration for food lovers everywhere. It’s a time for families to gather, share stories, and enjoy the finest seafood the season has to offer.
As you prepare for your holiday gatherings, consider how this age-old tradition could bring new meaning to your own celebrations. Whether you follow the classic seven fishes or mix it up, the Feast is a beautiful reminder of the importance of tradition, togetherness, and delicious food.
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Be honest.
1mo...and not one single employee got to spend it with their families either.