Blessing of the Animals
The blessing ceremony for domestic animals on the feast day of Saint Anthony Abbot
About Blessing of the Animals
An Affectionate Tradition in the Heart of Winter
In the Italian popular calendar, Saint Anthony Abbot has been the patron saint of animals for centuries, and in many towns, his feast day is the occasion for the blessing of livestock. In Arzignano, in the province of Vicenza, this tradition is renewed with the Blessing of Domestic Animals, a ceremony eagerly awaited by many families in the area.
Everyone in Piazzale Mattarello
The gathering point is in front of the Teatro Mattarello, in the center of Arzignano: here, owners and animals – especially dogs and cats, but also small friends of other species – gather to receive the blessing. A simple and participatory moment, which unites the religious dimension with the affectionate relationship between people and their four-legged companions.
Hot Chocolate and Solidarity
The day is warmed by hot chocolate offered to attendees, while the proceeds from donations are used to support animals in need. The initiative is promoted by Pro Loco di Arzignano APS in collaboration with the Municipality of Arzignano and local animal welfare associations, testifying to a community attentive to the well-being of its animals.
Blessing of the Animals — edition 2026
The 2026 appointment with the Blessing of Domestic Animals in Arzignano is set for Sunday, January 18, at 3:00 PM, in front of the Teatro Mattarello.
Owners and four-legged friends are invited to participate in the ceremony, accompanied by hot chocolate offered to all attendees.
Programme Blessing of the Animals 2026
Sunday, January 18, 2026
- 3:00 PM — Gathering in Piazzale Mattarello, in front of the Teatro Mattarello
- Blessing ceremony for domestic animals
- Hot chocolate offered to attendees
- Collection of donations for animals in need
Initiative organized by Pro Loco di Arzignano APS in collaboration with the Municipality of Arzignano and local animal welfare associations.
Highlights Blessing of the Animals 2026
Prices Blessing of the Animals 2026
Practical information — Blessing of the Animals
How to get there
The meeting point is in Piazzale Mattarello, in front of the Teatro Mattarello, in the center of Arzignano (VI). Reachable by car from the A4 (Montecchio Maggiore exit) and the SP246.
Participation
Free entry. Animals must be kept on a leash or in carriers. Hot chocolate offered to attendees; free donations for animals in need.
Contacts
Pro Loco di Arzignano APS — [email protected] — tel. +39 348 9239804.
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Where does it take place — Blessing of the Animals
Piazzale del Teatro Mattarello
Piazzale Mattarello, 36071 Arzignano