Feast of Saint John the Baptist

The patronal feast of Campobello di Licata

The Feast of Saint John the Baptist is the most anticipated event of the early summer in Campobello di Licata, a town in the province of Agrigento, Sicily. Every year, around June 24th, the liturgical day of the saint, the entire community gathers around its patron in a celebration that weaves together religious devotion, folk tradition, and public festivities. As the locals call it, it is "the first festival of the summer season," awaited with great enthusiasm.

Origins and devotion

The town's bond with Saint John the Baptist dates back to 1681, when Baron Raimondo Raimondetta, lord of Campobello, chose the great saint as the city's patron, also in memory of his father. The statue venerated by the faithful was sculpted in 1826 by the artist Girolamo Bagnasco. Since then, the patronal feast has been the strongest symbol of the community's identity, honoring its protector every June 24th with a solemn mass and a procession through the city streets.

The festival program

The festivities span several days, from June 22nd to 30th, with a calendar alternating between liturgical moments and popular initiatives:

• Religious celebrations: recitation of the Holy Rosary, masses in the town's churches, and the solemn mass dedicated to the patron saint;
• The statue procession: on the evening of June 24th, the statue of Saint John the Baptist is carried in procession through the town center, accompanied by the faithful and the local brass band;
• Historical costume parade: a picturesque parade of characters in period costumes representing different eras, from antiquity to the Middle Ages and the modern age;
• Fireworks: the day traditionally concludes with fireworks illuminating the night sky above the square;
• Festival of Ancient Flavors: in Piazza XX Settembre, a food and wine event dedicated to traditional Sicilian dishes and local products.

A community event

The Feast of Saint John the Baptist is not just a religious rite, but a gathering for the entire population of Campobello di Licata. The historic center's squares come alive, families reunite, and the town welcomes visitors from neighboring towns in the Agrigento area. The event, organized by the Municipality together with the parish, represents a privileged gateway to discovering the traditions of this corner of inland Sicily.

When to visit

The 2026 edition is scheduled from June 22nd to 30th, with the main day set for June 24th. The detailed program of performances and related events is generally published by the Municipality in the weeks leading up to the feast.