International Women’s Day (IWD) is held 8 March, and in Italy, it’s called La Festa della Donna.

The first IWD was really a National Women’s Day held in New York City in 1909; by 1911, the idea of a day honouring women had spread to Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland and now celebrations are held in countries throughout the world including China, Russia, Bulgaria, Mongolia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.

The symbol of the day is the yellow mimosa, and men are encouraged to give a bunch of them to all of the important women in their lives.

So how do women in Italy celebrate their day?

Well, think of it a bit like a hen night or bachelorette party. Bars and nightclubs have drink specials and attractions geared toward women, especially male dancers, clothed and otherwise.

Wasn’t that a nice way to say male strippers?

What follows are some rather tame videos with the theme of the Festa della Donna in Italy. Considering that many of the celebrations involve more, ahem, risqué displays, I will leave it to you to find such videos and enjoy.

Now guys, remember to pick up those mimosas for 8 March! Read more about International Women’s Day at http://www.internationalwomensday.com.