Val di Fassa is wrapped in festive magic. Among markets, wooden and ice nativity scenes, towering Christmas trees, and twinkling lights, the snow-covered peaks of Catinaccio, Sassolungo, and Pordoi frame ancient traditions and enchanting celebrations. On 6 December, St Nicholas, pursued by the fearsome "Krampus", hands out sweets to well-behaved children, while on Christmas Day, Father Christmas meets the little ones in the village squares. New Year's Eve is celebrated under the stars, and on 5 and 6 January, the "Befana", a sweet old witch, makes her appearance. On Epiphany, the "Trei Rees" (the Three Kings) sing the ancient "Songs of the Star", and the tradition of blessing homes, barns, and stables is renewed. Even the animals are blessed, for it's said that on the twelfth night, they gain the power of speech...