Folklore

Palazzolo Acreide’s cultural identity is deeply woven with vibrant folklore, expressed through passionate religious celebrations and unique artistic traditions. Beyond the architectural splendor, the town pulsates with life during its traditional events.

The Heart of Religious Festivities: The religious calendar in Palazzolo Acreide is marked by deeply felt and spectacular celebrations. The feasts dedicated to the town’s patron saints are particularly significant, drawing both locals and visitors into a whirlwind of processions, music, and fervent devotion. The feast of San Paolo, held in June, is a highlight, characterized by the carrying of the saint’s simulacrum through the streets, accompanied by fervent prayers and traditional songs and fireworks. Similarly, the festivities honoring other local saints are moments of intense community participation and a vivid display of ancestral customs.

The Thrill of the “Sciute”: One of the most spectacular and folkloristic expressions in Palazzolo Acreide is the tradition of the “sciute” (literally, “outbursts”). These are the exhilarating moments during religious processions when the statues of the saints are carried out of the church to the enthusiastic cheers and applause of the waiting crowd. The “sciute” are more than just a procession; they are a passionate outpouring of devotion, often accompanied by the loud ringing of bells, the firing of firecrackers. The energy and emotion surrounding a “sciuta” are truly captivating and offer a unique insight into the deep-rooted faith of the community.

January:

• 25 January: Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul. While less elaborate than the summer feast, it is a significant religious observance with processions and celebrations.

May:

• 8 May: Feast of San Michele Arcangelo (Spring Celebration). Commemorates the apparition of Saint Michael on Mount Gargano, usually involving a procession and evening fireworks.

June:

• 29 June: The Grand Feast of Saint Paul, the Patron Saint of Palazzolo Acreide. This is the most important and spectacular religious festival of the year. It features the iconic “sciuta” of the Saint’s statue from the basilica, a vibrant procession through the town, traditional songs, the blessing of animals, and the spectacular release of “nzareddi” (colored paper stripe) and fireworks.

August:

• 10 August (Main Celebration): Feast of Saint Sebastian. This is another major religious festival, characterized by fervent devotion and unique traditions. The “sciuta” of Saint Sebastian’s simulacrum is a highly anticipated moment. The celebrations often last for several days, including processions, the blessing of “cuddure” (votive bread), and various cultural and musical events.
• 17 August (Octave): Conclusion of the summer Feast of Saint Sebastian with a final procession and fireworks.

September:

• Sunday following September 29: Feast of San Michele Arcangelo (Autumn Celebration). This feast includes religious celebrations, the “sciuta ra cammira” (the “outing from the chamber” of the Saint’s statue), processions, and the presentation of children to the Saint.

Important Notes:

• The exact dates for some feasts, particularly the Feast of San Michele in September, can vary slightly each year as it is celebrated on the Sunday following September 29th.
• Each feast day typically involves novenas (nine days of prayer) leading up to the main event, as well as other religious services and community gatherings.
• The “sciute” are a central and highly emotional part of the feasts of Saint Paul and Saint Sebastian.
• The creation and release of “nzareddi” are a unique tradition particularly associated with the Feast of Saint Paul and Saint Sebastian.