Many members and supporters gathered at the Baracca behind the Veneto Club, where they enjoyed a generous lunch prepared by the tireless committee.
Taking centre stage were the Giovanni Rana tortellini, provided by the long-time sponsor of the Veronese association.
On arrival, each member received a small 2026 calendar highlighting the association’s events for the coming year, along with several photographs taken during celebrations held throughout 2025.
Association president Renzo Zanella reflected on the most eagerly awaited day of the annual calendar: “At first we were a little disappointed because the weather over the past few weeks had everyone uncertain, and right up to the last moment we thought it might rain today,” he said.
“But here we are, the day is beautiful, with gentle sunshine and pleasant temperatures. The Feast of Saint Lucia reflects our Veronese traditions. As children, we waited for this day with great excitement.
“For us, it’s like Christmas—it’s truly a special celebration.”
Legend has it that in the thirteenth century, many children in the city of Verona were struck by blindness. Appeals were made to Saint Lucia through a pilgrimage to the Church of Sant’Agnese, dedicated to the saint and now home to the city council.
Because of the winter cold, children were reluctant to walk all the way to the church, so parents promised them sweets and small gifts at the end of the procession.
The tradition has remained largely unchanged over the centuries, and even today children receive lollies, biscuits and presents.
“We were the first to bring this tradition to Australia,” Zanella said. At the end of lunch, he invited his daughter Gabriella to join him. Dressed in traditional costume and portraying Saint Lucia, she distributed stockings filled with sweets to all the children present.
The day concluded, as always, with panettone and the inevitable espresso with a splash of grappa.
