ITALY | Socializing | Cultural information
Mentality & Communication
Socializing in Italy is very easy.
Invitations
Sometimes you may be invited to someone's home for dinner, or for an after-dinner private party. On these occasions it's advisable to offer gifts to express your thanks for having been invited. Flowers, chocolates or one or two bottles of good wine are always appreciated.
Going out to Eat or Drink
If you are invited out you may offer to pay. However, according to Italian etiquette, your host will usually decline your offer. In Rome it's usual to divide the bill among the people who have had dinner together.
Local Customs
Each Italian region has its own popular traditions which are tied to festivals and events (for example, celebrating the patron saint of a city).
Many events are also associated with Carnival on both the local and national levels (the Carnival of Viareggio is well-known).
One event that has ancient origins and is famous throughout the world is the Palio of Siena, which takes place on June 2 and on August 16 each year. It includes a race with 17 horses each representing a neighbourhood Contrada.