Festa Patronale di Santa Margherita d'Antiochia
The procession of the Sacred Relics and the Blessing of the Sea
About Festa di Santa Margherita
The saint who gives the town its name
Saint Margaret of Antioch is the patron saint of the town that takes its name from her, Santa Margherita Ligure (Genoa Province), a jewel of the Tigullio overlooking the Ligurian Sea. The patronal festival, celebrated on July 20th, is the moment when the community renews its bond with its Christian and maritime roots.
The procession and the Blessing of the Sea
The heart of the celebration is the solemn procession with the Sacred Relics of the saint, kept in the Basilica, carried in a procession through the town's streets. To crown the celebrations is the Blessing of the Sea, an ancient gesture that inextricably links the town to its maritime vocation and the fishermen of the village.
Music, fireworks, and popular tradition
Alongside the religious dimension, the festival offers the most popular moments: the concert by the Banda Filarmonica Colombo in Piazza Caprera, the fireworks display over the sea, and a small fair. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the authenticity of the Tigullio in the height of the Ligurian summer.
Festa di Santa Margherita — edition 2026
For July 20, 2026, Santa Margherita Ligure renews the festival of its patron saint Saint Margaret of Antioch. The central moment is the procession with the Sacred Relics of the saint and the Blessing of the Sea. On the evening of July 19th, in Piazza Caprera, the concert by the Banda Filarmonica Colombo (9:30 PM) opens the festivities, which are completed by fireworks and the small fair that animates the center.
Programme Festa di Santa Margherita 2026
Sunday, July 19 - Piazza Caprera
- 9:30 PM — Concert by the Banda Filarmonica Colombo
Monday, July 20
- Liturgical celebrations in honor of Saint Margaret of Antioch
- Solemn procession with the Sacred Relics of the saint through the town streets
- Blessing of the Sea
- Fireworks display over the sea and fair in Piazza Caprera
Highlights Festa di Santa Margherita 2026
Prices Festa di Santa Margherita 2026
Practical information — Festa di Santa Margherita
How to get there
By train: Santa Margherita Ligure station on the Genoa–La Spezia line. By car: A12 motorway, Rapallo exit. The celebrations take place at the Basilica and in the town center, with the fair in Piazza Caprera.
When
Patronal festival on July 20th, preceded by concerts and events in the preceding days. Program distributed by the Municipality and the Basilica.
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Where does it take place — Festa di Santa Margherita
Basilica di Santa Margherita d'Antiochia e centro cittadino
Piazza Caprera, 16038 Santa Margherita Ligure