Feast in Honor of Maria SS. di Costantinopoli

The patronal feast of Acquaviva delle Fonti

The Feast in Honor of Maria SS. di Costantinopoli is the main patronal festival of Acquaviva delle Fonti, a town in the Metropolitan City of Bari, Puglia. The celebration takes place in the days surrounding the first Tuesday of September, culminating on that very day when the community pays homage to its Patroness. By tradition, on Tuesday morning, the mayor symbolically hands over the keys of the city to the Madonna, who is kept in the local Cathedral.

History and devotion

The bond between Acquaviva and Maria Santissima di Costantinopoli dates back to the 17th century: according to tradition, the Virgin protected the city from the plague of 1656, which is why she is celebrated twice a year, on the first Tuesday of March and the first Tuesday of September. Popular legend tells that the sacred image arrived in the city on an ox-drawn cart, an episode still commemorated today in the evocative historical re-enactment on Sunday.

The religious program

The spiritual heart of the festival is the preparatory triduum, followed by the enthronement of the icon of the Madonna in the Cathedral and Eucharistic celebrations presided over by local priests and the Bishop. On Tuesday evening, the itinerant procession winds through the streets of the center amidst the emotional participation of the faithful, while Wednesday concludes with the return procession and the closing Mass.

The secular festivities

Alongside the religious rites, the secular side of the event transforms Acquaviva into an open-air stage. The streets of the center are lit up with the famous Puglian luminarie (light displays), while brass orchestras and band concerts accompany the days. Not to be missed are the food stalls, where you can taste local products such as the renowned red onion of Acquaviva, taralli, and local pastries. The most anticipated moment is the launch of the paper hot-air balloon at midnight, a handcrafted balloon whose tradition dates back to the late 18th century, followed by the spectacular fireworks that close the main evening.

A symbol of identity

Organized by the Patronal Feast Committee with the support of the Municipality, the festival is much more than an event: it is the moment when the entire Acquaviva community, together with emigrants returning for the occasion, reconnects with its roots. It is also a perfect opportunity for visitors wishing to discover authentic popular religiosity and the traditions of Puglia.