25 Hours for Peace

A 25-hour marathon of solidarity

The 25 Hours for Peace is one of the most heartfelt events in San Polo d'Enza, a municipality in the Enza Valley in the Province of Reggio Emilia, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna. It is a true charity marathon that, as its name suggests, runs non-stop for twenty-five consecutive hours, transforming the Helder Camara Oratory into a large space for celebration, sport, and meeting. The event is promoted by the Pastoral Unit Terre del Perdono (Diocese of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla) with the patronage of the Municipality of San Polo d'Enza.

Sport, performances, and music for everyone

The program intertwines dozens of activities designed to involve children, teenagers, families, and adults. On the sports front, there are youth football matches, volleyball tournaments, basketball games, and performances of rhythmic gymnastics, roller skating, and dance. There are also live music moments, entertainment, cultural offerings, and initiatives dedicated to the youngest, in a cheerful atmosphere that lasts until late at night and resumes the next morning.

Peace as a lifestyle

At the heart of the event is a clear educational message: peace is built with simple, everyday gestures—a smile, a gesture of friendship, a fraternal look, sincere listening, free service. The Oratory thus becomes a community laboratory, where young people and volunteers offer their time and energy for others.

Proceeds in support of solidarity projects

Each edition dedicates the proceeds from its activities to specific charitable causes, both local and international. The 2026 edition supports the safety and purchase of equipment for the Helder Camara Oratory, the renovation of the spaces of the "Mamma Mara" Nursery and Kindergarten in Pontenovo, and the continuation of support for the Casa di Frei Francisco in Recife, Brazil, dedicated to young people in situations of severe social disadvantage. Over the years, the solidarity of San Polo d'Enza has reached projects on several continents.

Gastronomy and conviviality

Alongside sport and music, ample space is given to food: food stalls, a refreshment area, and convivial moments accompany the marathon hours, offering specialties from the Reggio Emilia area in a familiar and welcoming atmosphere. The 25 Hours for Peace is an event that well reflects the spirit of San Polo d'Enza: a community that comes together around the values of hospitality and sharing.