Festival of Maria SS. Cacciapensieri and Saint Joseph

A festival in the heart of the Sicani Mountains

The Festival of Maria SS. Cacciapensieri and Saint Joseph is the most anticipated summer event in Cammarata, a picturesque village perched in the Sicani Mountains, in the province of Agrigento, Sicily. For several days in August, the entire town gathers around its patron saint in a celebration that weaves together popular faith, folklore, and community identity. Maria SS. Cacciapensieri is the primary patron saint of Cammarata and the nearby town of San Giovanni Gemini, and the festival serves as a bridge between the two communities that share this deep devotion.

Maria SS. Cacciapensieri and Saint Joseph

The unique name "Cacciapensieri" (literally "thought-chaser") reflects the popular belief in the Virgin's ability to drive away anguish, worries, and negative thoughts: an affectionate title that speaks to centuries of faithful reliance on the Madonna. Beside her, the Patriarch Saint Joseph is venerated; according to historical accounts, his statue was moved to the church of Santa Maria following the cholera epidemic of 1867. The statue depicts Saint Joseph holding the Baby Jesus in his right hand and a lily-flowered staff in his left, a symbol of chastity and purity.

The heart of the festival: August 15 and 18

The religious celebrations reach their peak on August 15, the Solemnity of the Assumption, with masses held from the early morning, a solemn evening celebration in the square, and the evocative procession of the statue of Maria SS. Cacciapensieri through the village streets, accompanied by a brass band, drums, and the recitation of the rosary. August 18 is dedicated to Saint Joseph, featuring the grand joint procession of the statues of both patron saints, attended by committees, parish groups, and confraternities, concluding in the evening with a fireworks display.

Traditions and folklore

Beyond the religious rites, the festival is rich in popular traditions that bring the historic center to life:

• The folkloric horseback parade, a procession on horseback through the main streets of the village;
• A Cursa di Carruzzuna, the iconic cart race that draws curious onlookers and enthusiasts;
• The Vicchiarieddi and the living nativity scene of the Holy Family on August 16, featuring the sharing of traditional dishes and the classic Saint Joseph soup in the square;
• Evening musical performances and fireworks that close the festival days.

An authentic experience

Experiencing the Festival of Maria SS. Cacciapensieri means immersing yourself in the most genuine soul of inland Sicily: a Sicani Mountains village that transforms for a few days into a stage for devotion, music, flavors, and conviviality. It is a precious opportunity to discover Cammarata, its dialect, its cuisine, and the hospitality of the Agrigento region.