Feast of Maria SS. Annunziata

The patronal feast of Raccuja

The Feast of Maria SS. Annunziata is the most important and deeply felt celebration in Raccuja, a small town within the Nebrodi Park in the province of Messina, Sicily. The Madonna Annunziata has been the village's patron saint since the 16th century. The mother church, now dedicated to Santa Maria di Gesù, was originally consecrated to Maria SS. Annunziata and houses a fine statue of the Annunciate Virgin attributed to the Gagini school, originating from an ancient monastery of Observant friars.

Devotion and tradition

Festivities begin several days in advance with the settina, a week of preparation marked by Eucharistic celebrations and prayer that guide the faithful toward the patron saint's day. The religious heart of the festival is the procession of the statue through the village streets. The float is prepared using a striking "calata" (lowering) of the statue, performed with a wooden mechanism built in the last century, which replaced the ancient system of ropes and bearers. During the procession, the Madonna bestows the traditional blessing upon the countryside, followed by a parade of faithful in prayer and song, accompanied by a brass band. Upon returning to the church, a solemn mass is celebrated.

Music, shows, and fireworks

Alongside religious rites, the program offers numerous cultural and entertainment events, with Piazza del Popolo serving as the main stage for concerts, evening shows, and celebrations that bring the village to life for several days. The event also features fireworks, traditionally held near the Church of San Sebastiano, providing a grand finale to the patronal day. In recent years, the festival has hosted well-known names from the Italian music and entertainment scene, drawing large crowds to the square.

A gathering for the whole community

The Annunziata Feast is much more than a religious event; it is the moment when Raccuja rediscovers its identity, welcoming back families and emigrants who return for the occasion. For visitors, it is the ideal opportunity to discover an authentic Nebrodi village and experience one of the most deep-rooted traditions of northern Sicily.