A Comet in the Village

A Comet in the Village: the living nativity scene of Dragoni

In the heart of the Alto Casertano, the small village of Dragoni, in the province of Caserta, transforms into an open-air nativity scene every year. "Una Cometa nel Borgo" is the Christmas event that, after more than a decade of absence, has returned to bring the streets of the historic center to life with its living nativity, involving the entire community.

The project is promoted by the Sette Contrade association, led by president Felice Pengue, with the patronage of the Municipality of Dragoni. The chosen setting is the evocative Villa De Pertis, a 17th-century historic residence nestled in the ancient center of the town, which offers an ideal backdrop for the reenactment of the Nativity.

A village reliving ancient crafts

During the performances, the village is populated by traditional characters: the carpenter, the blacksmith, the washerwoman, the housewife busy preparing pasta, the basket weaver, and numerous other artisan and historical figures. It is a journey through time that recreates the atmosphere of Christmas past, when trades were passed down from generation to generation.

The scenes are accompanied by Christmas carols, music, and the scents of traditional local dishes, which visitors can taste along the route. There is no shortage of animals—horses, donkeys, sheep, and ducks—that make the setting even more authentic and are a particular hit with children.

A celebration for the whole community

"Una Cometa nel Borgo" is not just a moment to celebrate traditions, but also an opportunity for gathering and rebirth for the entire community of Dragoni. The holiday program also includes an appointment dedicated to the little ones, with Santa Claus delivering gifts to the homes of families participating in the initiative.

The event is part of the rich tradition of living nativity scenes in Campania, which is particularly felt in the Caserta area, and today represents one of the most anticipated Christmas appointments in the region.

Where it takes place

The living nativity scene is set up at Villa De Pertis and in the historic center of Dragoni, in the hilly hinterland north of the provincial capital. Its location, immersed in the landscape of the Alto Casertano, helps create the intimate and authentic atmosphere that characterizes the event.