This year, the Italian Children’s Market welcomes someone new to its family of fun yet purposeful little members. And who is this newcomer? Why, the Italian Christmas donkey! Dominick, of course!

Many long-standing, loyal Italian Children’s Market customers are saying, “It’s about time!” They’ve been asking for Dominick for years, fondly remembering a special song and wanting their children and grandchildren to know it too. For anyone unfamiliar with Dominick the Donkey, here’s what to know: 

He’s the titular character in a hit holiday song enjoyed by generations of Italian Americans; a lovable donkey at home in the Italian hills. When Santa’s reindeer are unable to navigate the rugged terrain, sure-footed little Dominick saves the day by helping Santa deliver gifts to the children in those hard-to-reach towns. 

This Christmas (well over half-a-century since being made famous in 1960 by Italian American singer Lou Monte) the song “Dominick the Donkey” will undoubtedly ride the radio waves once again, evoking memories, as it never fails to do, of beloved generations gathering to cook and eat (of course) and sing along with the radio. 

Even today, many find it hard to refrain from cheering when “Dominick the Donkey” comes on. It’s that kind of song. But there’s no need to wait for the radio to play it! Simply by pressing a button on the chunky, plush hoof of the Italian Children’s Market’s newest arrival, one can begin a child’s (or anyone’s!) introduction to an enduring Italian American treasure. Just be ready for the laughter, the hee haws and the la-la-la-dio-das, the chingedy-ching, and there might even be dancing!   

And so, with delight and anticipation, the Italian Children’s Market, based in San Pedro, brings Dominick the donkey into its growing family which now includes little traveling doll Regina, wise old Befana, sweet musical lamb Agnellino, Giovanni’s “cousin” Giuliana, and of course, Giovanni the Italian-speaking bear who, in 2008, left California snug in his box to travel solo all the way to New York and into the arms of a child. He was the first and, at the time, the only. And with his journey, the Italian Children’s Market was born. 

This November, the Italian Children’s Market celebrates 16 years of introducing young Italian Americans to the language and wonders of their heritage through toys, books, clothing, jewelry, and more. www.italianchildrensmarket.com

Benvenuto, Dominick! E Buon Natale a tutti!