Festa Patronale di San Giovanni Battista — Palio delle Contrade

The patron saint of Casnigo

The Festa Patronale di San Giovanni Battista is the most cherished event of the summer in Casnigo, a municipality in the Val Seriana, in the Province of Bergamo. The patron saint, San Giovanni Battista, is celebrated on June 24th, and around this date, the village organizes four days of festivities that combine religious observance with a rich programme of popular, sporting, and cultural events, animating Piazza San Giovanni Battista, Piazza Caduti, and the streets of the centre.

The Palio delle Contrade

The heart of the festival is the Palio delle Contrade, the competition between the five historic districts of Casnigo: Agher, Cacciatori, Garibaldina, Libeccio, and River Plaza. The districts compete in tournaments and games that involve both adults and children, in a spirit of healthy competition that renews the sense of belonging and the village's identity.

Corrida, falconry, and market

Alongside the Palio, the programme is packed with events: the Corrida di San Giovanni, a running race that attracts runners and enthusiasts; the artisan market with stands from local associations and producers; falconry shows; itinerant musical entertainment with the pifferai (bagpipers); puppet shows and inflatable attractions for children; and an exhibition of vintage vehicles. Street food and gastronomic stands along the village streets provide the backdrop.

The Sunday concert

To conclude the festival, on Sunday, the contrade tournament takes place at the oratory, followed by a concert by the 'Angelo Guerini' Musical Corps in Piazza San Giovanni Battista. Organized by the Municipality in collaboration with the association Le Botteghe di Casnigo, the festival has free admission and is one of the most beloved events in the Val Seriana.