As 2025 approaches, millions of Italians are getting ready to celebrate the New Year with parties, meals, and new habits influenced by recent regulations. According to a survey conducted by Fiepet Confesercenti in collaboration with Ipsos, about 8 million Italians will spend New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day away from home, with an average expenditure of 163 euros per person. However, the tightening of alcohol consumption laws is changing the behavior of many. Let’s take a closer look at the data and trends that have emerged.
Italians’ Preferences for New Year’s Eve Celebrations
The majority of Italians (53%) prefer to celebrate New Year’s Eve at home or at a relative’s place, a choice particularly common among women (57%) and those over 35 (56%). Conversely, young people aged 18 to 34 show a greater inclination to celebrate with friends (25%), indicating a preference for more dynamic social events.
Fourteen percent of Italians will choose to dine or celebrate New Year’s Eve in a restaurant or public venue, a figure that rises to 15% in Northern Italy. Additionally, 3% will opt for nightclubs or dance halls, a trend more pronounced among those under 34 (5%).
New Year’s Day Lunch: A Family Tradition
January 1st remains a more intimate and family-oriented day: 73% of Italians report spending New Year’s Day lunch at home or at a relative’s place, with a strong incidence among those over 35 (78%). Only 8% will choose a restaurant or public establishment, and a minority (7%) will opt for lunch while traveling or on vacation.
The Average Spending for the Holidays
Italians will spend an average of 163 euros per person to celebrate the arrival of the New Year, with 89 euros allocated for New Year’s Eve and 74.7 euros for New Year’s Day lunch. However, significant geographical differences are observed: in Northern Italy, the total average spending reaches 201.81 euros, while in the Central regions it stands at around 109 euros. These figures highlight not only variations in the cost of living but also different spending habits.
The Impact of the New Highway Code
The implementation of new regulations to the highway code on December 14, 2024, which impose stricter penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, has influenced year-end plans. According to the survey, 9% of Italians have completely changed their plans, while 15% will use public transport or private means that they do not drive themselves. Furthermore, 27% will abstain from alcohol consumption, reflecting a growing awareness of road safety.
A Toast with Fewer Bubbles
Despite the desire to celebrate, the impact of the new rules is evident. Many Italians, aware of the new penalties, are opting for more moderate celebrations. However, 15% state that they will not change either their plans or their alcohol consumption, indicating that the tradition of toasting remains strong, albeit with some adjustments.
New Year’s 2025 is shaping up to be an opportunity to celebrate differently, balancing tradition and safety. The collected data highlights interesting trends: a greater focus on road safety, geographical differences in behavior, and a strong preference for intimate and family-oriented celebrations.
With an eye on new developments and a more responsible toast, Italians are preparing to welcome the New Year with enthusiasm and caution.
Italian Version
