Li Tri Re Festival

A Canicattì tradition since 1870

The Li Tri Re Festival is an Epiphany re-enactment celebrated every January 6th in Canicattì, in the heart of the Agrigento province, Sicily. Its origins date back to 1870, when local farrier Luigi Antinoro returned from military service with the idea of representing the adoration of the Magi. Together with his friends Nunzio Lo Brutto, Giuseppe Tardino, and the Russo brothers, and guided by the priest Gaspare De Caro for the sacred theatre aspect, he created a performance that has spanned over a century and a half of history.

From triennial to annual festival

Initially, due to costs, the festival was held every three years; it became biennial at the beginning of the 20th century and finally annual starting in 1938. Today, it is organized by the Li Tri Re Association and represents one of the most significant identity-defining events in the city's calendar, drawing both locals and visitors from across the region to the Borgalino district.

The Magi procession

The highlight is the historical pageant: Melchior, Balthasar, and Caspar ride through the city on horseback, preceded by bagpipers, squires, and soldiers in oriental attire. The route touches the symbolic sites of the re-enactment, from the Villa Comunale to the city squares, ending at the Nativity scene set up next to the church of Santo Spirito (built in 1782), in the historic Borgalino district and Piazza Roma, the ancient heart of the town.

Sounds, scenes, and popular faith

From the morning, the streets of Borgalino fill with the sound of ciaramedde (traditional bagpipes) and pipers wandering the city to collect offerings. In the afternoon, the procession takes shape, featuring the meeting of the Magi, Herod's palace, and the arrival at the Nativity grotto, where the Kings offer gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Baby Jesus. It is a festival that unites the religious dimension of the Epiphany with the warmth of a theatrical re-enactment involving the entire community.

Why it is worth attending

• One of the longest-running Epiphany re-enactments in Sicily, active since 1870.
• Procession of the Magi on horseback through the historic centre of Canicattì.
• Authentic atmosphere in the Borgalino district, complete with bagpipers and a living nativity.
• Free admission and a festive atmosphere throughout the day.