The patron saint of Vernazza between procession, games, and fireworks over the sea
The Patronal Festival of Saint Margaret of Antioch is the most heartfelt event of the year in Vernazza, in the province of La Spezia, a pearl of the Cinque Terre National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is celebrated on July 20th, the day of the patron saint, and is included among the Authentic Ligurian Events supported by the Region.
The day combines religious and festive dimensions. The procession winds through the village's main street, followed by stalls and moments of celebration. In the evening, the most anticipated spectacle: the fireworks over the sea, which illuminate Vernazza's famous cove with colors reflected on the water, in one of Liguria's most scenic settings.
A characteristic element of the festival are the Games of Saint Margaret, a tradition with over fifty years of history that involves the community in popular tests and competitions. Organized by the Pro Loco Vernazza, they are a sign of the festival's deep roots in the social fabric of the village.
The same weekend, the village also hosts "Vernazza in Vigna", an enotourism event dedicated to the heroic wines produced on the terraces of the Cinque Terre. An additional opportunity to discover Vernazza not just as a postcard destination, but as a living community, tied to the sea, the vine, and its traditions.
In 2026, the Festival of Saint Margaret of Antioch will be celebrated in Vernazza on July 20th. The day will include the procession along the main street, stalls, the Games of Saint Margaret, and in the evening, fireworks over the sea. The same weekend, on July 19th, the enotourism event "Vernazza in Vigna" will also be held. The festival is included among the Authentic Ligurian Events 2026.
July 20th, Saint Margaret's Day. The same weekend, "Vernazza in Vigna" is held (July 19th).
Village and marina of Vernazza (SP), Cinque Terre National Park.
By train to Vernazza station, on the Cinque Terre line (Genoa-La Spezia): the most convenient way, given the limited car access. With the Cinque Terre Card, you can easily reach the villages.
Festival and fireworks are free admission.
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Borgo e marina di Vernazza