Bonfire of Saint Anthony Abbot — Lu Laute
The great bonfire of Saint Anthony Abbot, a century-old tradition of Molise
About Lu Laute
The Rite of Fire of Saint Anthony
The Bonfire of Saint Anthony Abbot, known in Vinchiaturo as «lu laute», is a century-old tradition of the village in the province of Campobasso. Every year, on January 17th, in honor of the saint, a large bonfire is lit, illuminating the village, following a rite of fire common throughout the Sannio and Molise areas.
Blessing of Animals and Ri Sciusce
The celebration is linked to the figure of Saint Anthony Abbot, protector of animals. After the evening Mass, the blessing of animals takes place, and «ri sciusce» is distributed, a traditional dish made of boiled legumes with cereals, oil, and salt, shared by the community around the fire.
A Devotion That Renews Itself
The bonfire of Saint Anthony is one of the most heartfelt moments of winter in Vinchiaturo: the warmth of the fire, the flavors of peasant tradition, and the religious dimension merge into a festival that renews the bond of the Molise village with its roots every year.
Lu Laute — edition 2026
On January 17, 2026, the day of Saint Anthony Abbot, Vinchiaturo renewed the tradition of «lu laute», the large bonfire lit in honor of the saint. The fire illuminated the center of the village, in the province of Campobasso, drawing the community around the rite.
As is customary, after the evening Mass, the blessing of animals and the distribution of «ri sciusce», boiled legumes with cereals, oil, and salt, shared by those present, took place.
Programme Lu Laute 2026
Saturday, January 17, 2026 — Center of Vinchiaturo
- Evening Mass in honor of Saint Anthony Abbot
- Lighting of the great bonfire «lu laute»
- Blessing of animals
- Distribution of «ri sciusce» (boiled legumes with cereals, oil, and salt)
Highlights Lu Laute 2026
The lighting of the great bonfire «lu laute» and the distribution of «ri sciusce» after the blessing of the animals.
Prices Lu Laute 2026
Practical information — Lu Laute
How to get there
Vinchiaturo can be reached by car from Campobasso along the SS17. The bonfire is lit in the center of the village, in the province of Campobasso.
Tips
The festival takes place on the evening of January 17th. Admission is free. For the schedule of celebrations, it is advisable to consult the Parish of Vinchiaturo.
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Where does it take place — Lu Laute
Piazza e centro di Vinchiaturo
Centro storico, 86019 Vinchiaturo