La Cantata dei Pastori Living Nativity — Unica Stella

A living nativity in the heart of Giulianova Paese

Every December 26th, the upper village of Giulianova, in the province of Teramo, hosts one of the most heartfelt events of the Abruzzese Christmas: the Neapolitan Living Nativity organized by the Unica Stella Association together with the Parish of San Flaviano. The event takes place in the Renaissance historic center, using the natural backdrop of Piazza Caduti del 29 febbraio 1944 and the alleys surrounding the Cathedral of San Flaviano, which become a true open-air theater.

The origins: from 1994 to today

The adventure of the Giulianova living nativity began in December 1994, when a small group of locals decided to bring the sacred representation of the Nativity to life in the heart of the historic center. Since then, the event has become a staple of the city's traditions, repeating every year and surpassing its twenty-eighth edition in 2025. While each year features an original theme, it maintains the beauty and significance of the sacred performance intact.

18th-century Baroque Naples

The Giulianova nativity draws inspiration from the great 18th-century Neapolitan theatrical tradition: the village fills with figures in Baroque and folk costumes who share their stories with spectators, blending the sacred and the profane, laughter and deep emotion. The title of the 2025 edition, «La Cantata dei Pastori», explicitly references the work at the root of the Neapolitan nativity, with its folk atmosphere and choral dimension.

How it works

• The performance is organized with staggered entries, with groups of visitors guided along the route at regular intervals.
• Actors, extras, singers, and musicians participate in the scene, creating a production that combines acting, singing, and live music.
• Entry is located along Corso Garibaldi, just after the Cathedral of San Flaviano.

A staple of the Giulianova Christmas

The Living Nativity is part of the rich Christmas calendar in Giulianova, which offers dozens of events every year, including concerts, markets, and cultural initiatives. The Unica Stella Association also promotes side events, such as the Criptomani choir concert in the church of Sant'Antonio. The entire event is held under the patronage of the Municipality of Giulianova and the Province of Teramo, confirming the identity value this event has gained for the community of the Teramo coast.