Our Lady of Graces Festival - Carusuniedde

The Carusuniedde, the Marian soul of Carosino

In the heart of the province of Taranto, in Apulia, the small town of Carosino experiences its most authentic celebration every spring: the Our Lady of Graces Festival, known to all by its local name, Carusuniedde. It is the feast of the town's co-patron saint, celebrated in the days following Easter and culminating on Easter Monday, when the entire community gathers around the statue of the Virgin in a tapestry of faith, music, and popular tradition.

An ancient devotion

Devotion to Our Lady of Graces has roots in a tradition passed down through generations. According to local lore, the Virgin's protection over the village dates back to the 15th century, when it is believed Carosino was saved from an invasion. Since then, the town has proudly held the title of Marian city and maintains a deep bond with its patroness, distinguishing between two separate observances: the winter one on February 17th and the spring festival of Carusuniedde, which is the most deeply felt by the community.

Three days of celebration

The festival spans three days. It opens with the enthronement of the statue in the Mother Church and a tour of the town streets accompanied by brass bands. The highlight is Easter Monday, featuring a solemn morning mass and the grand procession of the Virgin's statue through the streets of the historic center. The event concludes with a thanksgiving mass and a second procession, ending with the traditional fireworks display.

The sound of brass bands

A defining element of the Carusuniedde is the presence of grand brass bands: over the years, prestigious ensembles from the Apulian scene have performed, such as the Gran Concerto Bandistico of Gravina in Puglia and the "Giuseppe Verdi" band of Sava, accompanying processions and morning concerts in the bandstand set up in the square. Religious celebrations are complemented by evening pop music concerts that enliven Piazza Vittorio Emanuele.

A community gathering

The Carusuniedde is organized by the Festival Committee together with the parish and under the patronage of the Municipality of Carosino. More than just a tourist event, it is the moment when the town rediscovers its identity: the illuminations, stalls, the scent of street food, and the sound of the bands frame a devotion that remains vibrant and participatory, drawing emigrants and visitors from neighboring towns back to Carosino.