La Festa dei Candelieri

The Festa dei Candelieri, known locally as "Festha Manna" (the “Large Festival”), is celebrated every August 14th and is the biggest event in the city.

The preparation for the "lowering of the candelieri" (otherwise known as "La Faradda") starts in the morning with the decoration of 10 large votive candles with flowers and ribbons. After the decoration, the candles are marched through town to the rhythm of drummers, 4 orchestras, and a multitude of appreciative tourists and locals. Once the procession arrives at the Church of Santa Maria di Betlemme, there's a short ceremony in honor of

This procession happens every August 14th in honor of the Virgin who, according to legend, saved the village from a plague in 1580. During the procession, wooden columns decorated with flowers and flags are moved from Avenue Vittorio Emmanuelle I to the Church of Santa Maria di Betlemme. The 10 Candelieri represent the different regional townships in the order of their founding. The tradition is full of movement and music and makes for a spectacular day for tourists and locals alike.