Many winter markets exist across Italy, yet this one still retains a sense of its original purpose. The market traditionally acted as a barometer for the year's labors as well as an important economic reference point for the agro-pastoral mountain community.

The event is witnessed by 'I Re Magi' who go from house to house to announce the birth of Jesus. Each carries the 'stele de Nadal', a wooden star at the center of which is a small lamp.

Each family must offer food such as the “pan di cjase”. One of the local products visitors can find are the 'maialini da latte'. These versions substituted the real thing consumed in November to make the local salami.

Other typical Carnia products include the 'scarpèts' (pictured) a Friulian slipper made of velvet, cheese made in Alpine huts 'malga' the old way, dried mushrooms, jams made from forest fruits etc.

The market is on for just the one day and starts at 10.00. Every child will also be given a present. For the adults, horse drawn carriage rides and mulled wine.

The local restaurants will be serving up cjarsòns, frico with polenta, musét and brovade (a pork sausage and turnip dish).