La passegiata takes place in every village, town, and city of Italy. As day fades into evening, something compels families to take to the streets, without making arrangements, to meet other family and friends, swapping the latest news and gossip. It normally occurs between 5-8pm in each town or city's historic center, main streets, or piazzas. During the week la passegiata is the social end to a busy work or school day, before the return home for dinner. However, in the weekend, la passegiata is often the main social event, when Italians dress in their best clothing, wishing to see and to be seen. It is a beautiful phenomenon drawing together the threads of society and creating a sense of close community. I wish I had known to watch out for this when I was in Italy, the culture is so wonderful and fascinating.
