“They will celebrate the advent of spring together by spending time outdoors, strolling in parks, sitting under trees or in beautiful gardens, and listening to music or talking. Valentine’s Day celebrates the Queen of Roman gods and goddesses – Juno, the Goddess of Women and Marriage. In Italy, Valentine’s Day is known as La Festa Degli Innamorati.

Did you know that some Italian communities celebrate La Festa Degli Innamorati in an interesting way – by blessing large amounts of oranges. San Valentino, the patron saint of Vico del Gargano in the Umbria region, protects local orange groves from the winter cold.

As La Festa Degli Innamorati is approaching, Giovani will continue spreading the love of our Italian American community. In January, three of our Giovani members went to the Italian American Future Leaders Conference as well as Giovani held our First Membership Meeting this month! Giovani is about preserving our Italian American Heritage as well as network, celebrate our culture, and give back to our community. Please scan the QR code below to become a member.

Thank you!
Gabriella Quarantello Ruderman”