Patronal Feast of Saint Margaret of Antioch
Edition 2026 Sacred music Pyrotechnic show Heritage

Patronal Feast of Saint Margaret of Antioch

The patron saint of Vernazza between procession, games, and fireworks over the sea

Vernazza — La Spezia (011)
Dates 20 Jul — 20 Jul 2026
Location Vernazza (011)
Prices Free
Status Confirmed

About Saint Margaret of Antioch

On July 20th, Vernazza, one of the most beloved villages of the Cinque Terre, celebrates its patron saint, Saint Margaret of Antioch. A day that blends faith and popular celebration: the procession along the main street, stalls in the village, the famous Games of Saint Margaret with over half a century of history, and to conclude, fireworks over the sea. Included among the Authentic Ligurian Events, it's an opportunity to experience Vernazza in its most authentic dimension, far from mere beach tourism.

The Patron Saint of the Cinque Terre

The Patronal Feast of Saint Margaret of Antioch is the most heartfelt event of the year in Vernazza, in the province of La Spezia, a pearl of the Cinque Terre National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is celebrated on July 20th, the day of the patron saint, and is included among the Authentic Ligurian Events supported by the Region.

Between Procession and Fireworks

The day combines the religious and festive dimensions. The procession winds through the main street of the village, followed by stalls and moments of celebration. In the evening, the most anticipated spectacle: fireworks over the sea, illuminating Vernazza's famous inlet with colors reflected on the water, in one of Liguria's most scenic settings.

The Games of Saint Margaret

A characteristic element of the feast are the Games of Saint Margaret, a tradition with over fifty years of history that involves the community in popular tests and competitions. Organized by the Pro Loco Vernazza, they are a sign of the deep roots of the feast in the social fabric of the village.

Vernazza and the Wine of the Cinque Terre

The same weekend, the village also hosts "Vernazza in Vigna", an enotourism event dedicated to the heroic wines produced on the terraces of the Cinque Terre. One more opportunity to discover Vernazza not just as a postcard destination, but as a living community, tied to the sea, the vine, and its traditions.

Saint Margaret of Antioch — edition 2026

The Patronal Feast of Saint Margaret of Antioch returns to Vernazza on July 20, 2026, with the procession along the main street, stalls in the village, the Games of Saint Margaret, and evening fireworks over the sea of the Cinque Terre. Included among the Authentic Ligurian Events.

In 2026, the Feast of Saint Margaret of Antioch will be celebrated in Vernazza on July 20th. The day will include the procession along the main street, stalls, the Games of Saint Margaret, and in the evening, fireworks over the sea. The same weekend, on July 19th, the enotourism event "Vernazza in Vigna" will also be held. The feast is part of the Authentic Ligurian Events 2026.

Programme Saint Margaret of Antioch 2026

Sunday, July 19th

  • "Vernazza in Vigna": enotourism event dedicated to the wines of the Cinque Terre

Monday, July 20th — Patronal Feast

  • Religious celebrations in honor of Saint Margaret of Antioch
  • Procession along the main street of the village
  • Stalls and festive moments
  • Games of Saint Margaret (tradition with over 50 years of history)
  • Evening — Fireworks over the sea

Highlights Saint Margaret of Antioch 2026

The fireworks over Vernazza's sea, the Games of Saint Margaret, the procession in the Cinque Terre village.

Prices Saint Margaret of Antioch 2026

Feast with free admission.

Practical information — Saint Margaret of Antioch

When

July 20th, Feast of Saint Margaret. The same weekend "Vernazza in Vigna" is held (July 19th).

Where

Village and marina of Vernazza (SP), Cinque Terre National Park.

How to get there

By train to Vernazza station, on the Cinque Terre line (Genoa-La Spezia): the most convenient way, given the limited car access. With the Cinque Terre Card, you can easily reach the villages.

Admission

Feast and fireworks are free admission.

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Where does it take place — Saint Margaret of Antioch

Borgo e marina di Vernazza

Contact Saint Margaret of Antioch

Saint Margaret of Antioch in brief

Sacred music Pyrotechnic show Heritage Folk traditions Folklore Outdoor La Spezia

History of Saint Margaret of Antioch