Madonna della Neve Festival
The festival of the co-patron saint of Orsara di Puglia, every August 5th
Edition 2026 not confirmed to date
This edition has not been confirmed by the organiser to date. We recommend checking before going.
About Madonna della Neve
The festival of the co-patron of Orsara
The Madonna della Neve Festival is one of the most heartfelt religious and popular events in Orsara di Puglia, a village in the Subappennino Dauno in the province of Foggia, in the heart of northern Puglia. Celebrated every year on August 5th, the liturgical feast day of Our Lady of the Snows, the festival honors the town's co-patron, venerated alongside Saint Michael the Archangel as the protector of the Orsara community.
The 1624 statue by Aniello Stellato
The heart of the devotion is the precious wooden statue of the Madonna della Neve, carved from a single block of oak by the Neapolitan sculptor Aniello Stellato and brought to Orsara in December 1624. This masterpiece of Neapolitan Baroque sculpture cost 200 ducats at the time (one hundred for the sculpture and one hundred for transport from Naples) and is now cataloged as a cultural asset of historical and artistic significance. Restored by the Superintendency, the statue represents an invaluable identity and emotional treasure for the people of Orsara: in 2024, the community celebrated its 400th anniversary.
The day of August 5th
The festival blends religious devotion with community spirit. The statue is carried in a solemn procession through the streets of the historic center, accompanied by the faithful and a brass band, before returning to the mother church. In the evening, a solemn mass is celebrated, followed by festivities featuring music and traditional fireworks in honor of the Madonna. The event is part of the broader Agosto Orsarese calendar, which enlivens the town throughout the month with concerts, shows, tastings, and cultural events.
Orsara di Puglia, a village in the Monti Dauni
Nestled in the Monti Dauni hills, Orsara di Puglia is a small town with a long history. Once part of Irpinia until 1929, it is now part of the Cittaslow network, recognized for its quality of life and commitment to preserving traditions. Along with the famous Fucacoste e cocce priatorje night in November, the Madonna della Neve Festival is one of the moments when the village most intensely rediscovers its soul and popular faith.
Madonna della Neve — edition 2026
The official calendar for the 2026 edition of the Madonna della Neve Festival in Orsara di Puglia has not yet been published. The festival of the co-patron is traditionally linked to the August 5th anniversary and is part of the Agosto Orsarese calendar. The complete program, including times for the procession, solemn mass, and performances in Largo San Michele, will be communicated by the Municipality of Orsara di Puglia in the weeks leading up to the event.
Practical information — Madonna della Neve
How to get there
Orsara di Puglia is located in the Monti Dauni, in the province of Foggia. By car, take the A16 Naples-Canosa motorway (nearest exit) or the A14, continuing along the roads of the Subappennino Dauno. The reference railway station is Foggia, from where you can continue by bus or car.
When and prices
The festival takes place on August 5th. Religious celebrations and square performances are free to attend.
Tips
We recommend arriving in the historic center early for the procession and taking advantage of the Agosto Orsarese calendar to discover local food and wine.
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Where does it take place — Madonna della Neve
Centro storico e Largo San Michele