Buon Natale!
Some people may know that’s the Italian phrase for “Merry Christmas.” Others may think it’s a Nat King Cole song from 1959. On Wednesday, the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, which has Italian roots, was held in Manhattan. Another Christmas tradition is the legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli’s annual Christmas season performances at Madison Square Garden. People are familiar with these Christmas cultural relics, but, other than Bocelli, not as many recognize their connection to Italian American heritage.
These are just some of the many influences Italian Americans have had on Christmas celebrations in the United States. It’s a history and heritage preserved and advanced by the National Italian American Foundation. And this Christmas season, the organization deserves recognition for its efforts to promote these cultural legacies and many others. This is especially true as the NIAF concludes its 50th anniversary celebration.
Consider the aforementioned Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting. The ceremony has become a beloved American holiday tradition. It regularly features appearances by celebrities and performances from the country’s top musicians, all before the ravishing ceremonial lighting of the gigantic Christmas tree. It is commonly known that the lighting of this tree has been a custom since 1931. But were you aware that the first iteration of the tree lighting is rooted in Italian American lore? If you had been following NIAF’s social media, you would. It was a fact I was not aware of until I read the post.
“Did you know the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has Italian roots?” read NIAF’s Instagram post. “In 1931, Italian immigrant laborers building Rockefeller Center started this beloved tradition. Amid the construction, they put up a humble tree, decorating it with tin cans, paper, tinsel, cranberry garlands, and even foil from blasting caps — symbolizing hope and resilience during tough times. Now, over 90 years later, this tradition shines brighter than ever!”
Also consider Andrea Bocelli, the world-famous opera singer mentioned above. Audiences flock from all over the world to witness his unforgettable voice and unbelievable musical performances. His musical catalogue is the stuff of legends. On one Saturday in October, during Italian American Heritage Month, in Washington, D.C., Bocelli delivered an instant iconic performance for the attendees of the National Italian American Foundation’s 50th anniversary gala. He performed three songs, a far cry from his usual performances in sold-out venues around the world. However, the beauty of his revered tenor voice was an artistic masterpiece.
NIAF’s annual gala is an unrivaled affair filled with elegance and enchantment. Every attendee could feel the ambiance as soon as they entered the gala. It was as if guests entered the doors in Washington, D.C., and were magically transported to Italy’s Lazio region, this year’s area of honor. It was the culmination of a year’s work to promote the contributions of Italians, educating people in the country about Italian American achievements in history, science, politics, and culture. In an era of great division, NIAF’s ability to foster unity and build bridges is a much-needed respite from societal division.
“It was an elegant evening of fabulous fashion, authentic cuisine, and a special performance highlighting our rich Italian heritage,” said gala attendee Samantha Tornberg.
It was a splendid evening that reinforced a love for all things Italian and Italian American. The gala was an effervescent experience that united people together for a night of glitz, glamour, and Italian American history and pride. Boccelli’s performance was the metaphorical icing on the cake, the ricotta filling in a box of cannoli, or the brightest light on the Rockefeller Christmas tree.
Whether it’s the origins of Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in the city that never sleeps, Italian culinary delicacies, or world-renowned tenors singing, NIAF’s efforts warrant recognition. It’s an organization that has been vital to the renaissance — pun intended — of the Italian Americans’ place in the country’s DNA. Just as the Italian immigrants who constructed the first Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in 1931, NIAF will also have a bigger and brighter future.
