Patronal Feast of Saint Anthony of Padua

A devotion rooted in the centuries

The Patronal Feast of Saint Anthony of Padua is one of the most anticipated moments of the year in Furnari, a municipality in the province of Messina nestled on the hills that rise from the Gulf of Patti toward the Peloritani mountains, between the promontories of Milazzo and Tindari. Devotion to the Saint of Padua dates back to the Middle Ages: a chapel dedicated to him is documented as early as 1350, while the Confraternity that preserves his cult was founded in 1876. The village church houses a fine statue of the Saint, which is carried in procession on the day of the feast, along with artworks depicting the miracles of Saint Anthony.

The days of the feast

Although liturgically falling on June 13th, Saint Anthony is celebrated in Furnari with solemnity in September, when the village comes alive for one of the most important dates on the local calendar. The festivities traditionally kick off a season of patronal feasts that, within a few days, also features the venerated Our Lady of Sorrows.

The solemn day

The day of the feast follows a well-established ceremonial. At dawn, the firing of blank shots announces the occasion, followed by the Eucharistic celebration and the brass band's parade through the village streets. In the afternoon, at the end of the solemn Mass, the procession of the statue begins, carried on a fercolo (processional float) and accompanied by civil and religious authorities, as well as numerous faithful and devotees, winding through the historic center until evening.

Music and fireworks

The religious dimension intertwines with the festive and popular one. During the days of the feast, entertainment shows, brass band concerts, and music in the square take place, drawing residents and visitors from neighboring towns. The most awaited moment remains the midnight fireworks display, which illuminates the sky over Furnari and brings the solemn day to a spectacular close.

A defining event for Furnari

More than just a religious recurrence, the Feast of Saint Anthony represents a moment of strong identity for the community of Furnari and the entire north-eastern Sicily region. It is the occasion when emigrants and families return to the village, the streets light up with characteristic illuminations, and the Sicilian brass band tradition finds one of its most authentic expressions.