Immaculate Conception is a public holiday in Italy that is observed annually on December 8. This holiday is primarily a Catholic celebration, which is significant due to Italy being predominantly a Catholic nation. It acknowledges the belief in the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary - a doctrine that asserts that Mary was conceived without original sin. It is a day filled with religious reverence in addition to being a national holiday.
The day is marked by special church services, and often the Pope will lead a service at the Spanish Steps, in the city of Rome, that involves placing a wreath on the statue of Virgin Mary. Among the practices witnessed in the churches include prayers, hymns, sermons, and processions. In several parts of Italy, parades or festive events might take place, while some Italians will make a pilgrimage to the church on this day.
Most Italians have a day off work or school for the Immaculate Conception. It's also the unofficial start of Italy's holiday season, with many taking advantage of the holiday to put up their Christmas decorations and start shopping for presents. However, banks and most businesses remain closed. All in all, both the religious and secular side of the Immaculate Conception form an essential part of the Italian culture and traditions.