Patronal Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

The Patronal Feast of Pescasseroli

The Patronal Feast of Saints Peter and Paul is the most cherished religious and popular event in Pescasseroli, a high-mountain village located at an altitude of approximately 1,167 meters in the Province of L'Aquila, in the heart of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park. Every year, around June 29th, the community unites around its patron saints, Saint Peter and Saint Paul, in a celebration that blends faith, tradition, and conviviality.

The Church of Saints Peter and Paul

The heart of the festival is the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, the town's main place of worship. The building, of Gothic origin, was rebuilt in the Abruzzese late-Gothic style following the 1349 earthquake and preserves ribbed cross vaults and Baroque altars, as well as the venerated wooden statue of the Madonna dell'Incoronata. It is from this church that the solemn procession with the statues of the patron saints begins.

A rite that unites the community

The festival traditionally spans several days around June 29th. The program includes solemn liturgical celebrations in honor of the patron saints, a procession through the village streets with the participation of local confraternities and the marching band, and evening festivities in the square. Over the years, the event has hosted concerts by the local choir and bands from the Marsica region, which accompany the parade through the town, while festive lights illuminate the square in front of the church.

Tradition and hospitality

Organized by the Parish of Saints Peter and Paul with the support of the Pro Loco and the Pescasseroli community, the festival represents a symbol of unity and identity for the inhabitants. The stalls offer a variety of gastronomic specialties from the Marsican and Abruzzese cuisine, welcoming residents and visitors to one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the Apennines, a popular getaway in both summer and winter.

When it takes place

The event traditionally falls at the end of June, around the liturgical feast day of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29th). The dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been officially announced: it is recommended to check for updates on the channels of the Parish, the Pro Loco, and the Municipality of Pescasseroli.