Madonna della Stella Festival

A popular devotion spanning centuries

The Madonna della Stella Festival is one of the most cherished devotional events for the community of Ostuni, the famous White City in the province of Brindisi, Puglia. The festival centers on the church of Santa Maria della Stella, located along Viale Oronzo Quaranta just outside the historic center, and is organized by the historic confraternity of the same name that preserves its traditions. The roots of this cult date back to the 17th century and have been passed down from generation to generation, making this event a cornerstone of identity for the entire neighborhood.

When it is celebrated

The main celebration traditionally falls on the first Sunday of July, preceded by a preparatory novena that marks the days leading up to the festival with its liturgies. Mornings are dedicated to holy masses celebrated at dawn, while evenings bring the faithful together around the Virgin with evening services and sacred music, such as choral concerts hosted in the church.

The procession and festivities

The highlight of the day is the solemn procession which, in the late afternoon, carries the effigy of the Madonna della Stella through the main streets of Ostuni, accompanied by confreres, religious authorities, and the participation of the faithful. As evening falls, the secular festivities take over with a folk performance by the Gruppo Folk La Stella, featuring traditional songs and dances from Salento and Puglia. The day concludes with a fireworks display that illuminates the sky above the White City.

A community event

More than just a liturgical recurrence, the Madonna della Stella Festival is a moment of cohesion for the district and all of Ostuni: families reunite, illuminations and stalls enliven Viale Oronzo Quaranta and the surrounding alleys, and devotion intertwines with popular celebration. Those visiting Ostuni during these days have the opportunity to experience an authentic aspect of Puglian culture, away from the most beaten tourist paths, amidst faith, music, and shared traditions.