by Guisela Chiarella
In the northeastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, a small but distinct tradition sets it apart: school runs from March 3 to 5. While children celebrate these special days, local residents have mixed feelings about the tradition’s impact on daily life.
For many parents, the schedule poses logistical challenges. With work commitments demanding their time, some struggle to find childcare during this brief school break. “Parents have jobs to attend to,” said one local resident. “They can’t always watch their children, and they don’t fully understand why school operates this way.”
Grandparents often step in to fill the gap, taking on caregiving duties while parents work. “I’m the grandfather,” said one retiree. “When the parents are busy, I take the kids around and help however I can.”
For others, the situation presents no problem at all. “I’m retired,” said another grandparent. “So it’s not an issue for me.”
As the tradition continues, it sparks ongoing conversation in the region—raising questions about work-life balance, family support networks, and the evolving needs of modern households. Whether viewed as a charming regional custom or an outdated inconvenience, the three-day school schedule remains a distinctive feature of life in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
