The happy squeals of children can be heard on the streets this evening as the American tradition of Halloween trick or treating has crossed the ocean to Italy. The costumes are nowhere as elaborate as those worn by children in the USA, a few ghost costumes fashioned out of an old bedsheet, a lot of cat ear headbands and some simple face makeup comprise the bulk of the Halloween finery here in Salerno.
A few of the bars and businesses have put up some rudimentary decorations- some jack o’lantern bowls, a witch’s hat and some pumpkin- themed paper lanterns pretty much sums it up. Like in many American cities, the children here get their treats from local businesses that distribute pieces of candy – nothing elaborate, perhaps just a chewy caramello.
My treat came in the form of an evening aperitivo of vino bianco on the outdoor terrace of the Embarcadero on the lungomare, accompanied by a good book and a wonderful view of the Amalfi coast.
No homework for me tonight (definitely have some to do tomorrow, though). Tomorrow (November 1) is a national holiday in Italy – All Saints Day – and L’Accademia Italiana as well as most businesses will be closed. Hopefully Bar Rosa will be open, as I have become addicted to my daily morning cappuccino and cornetto. And I do not have any food in the frigorifero so I am hoping to find an open ristorante or pizzeria open. I wish everyone dolcetti (treats) and no scherzetti (tricks) on this overcast Hallow’s eve in Salerno, Italy!
Camino Musings 