Patronal Feast of Sant'Antonino and Santa Croce

The patronal feast of Torre de' Passeri

The Patronal Feast of Sant'Antonino and Santa Croce is the most anticipated event in the calendar of Torre de' Passeri, a small town in the Pescara Valley in the province of Pescara, in the heart of Abruzzo. Traditionally celebrated in early September, around the patron saint's day (September 3rd), the festival draws residents, returning emigrants, and visitors from neighboring towns for three days of devotion, music, and conviviality.

Faith and tradition

The religious heart of the festival is the solemn Eucharistic celebration held in the parish church of Beata Vergine Maria delle Grazie, followed by a procession with the statues of Sant'Antonino and Santa Croce through the historic center. In recent years, the solemn mass on September 3rd has been presided over by Monsignor Antonio D'Angelo, Bishop of L'Aquila. The days are marked by masses, rosaries, and moments of prayer that guide the community through the celebration.

Music, shows, and fireworks

Alongside the religious dimension, the festival offers a rich secular program in Piazza Plebiscito. Highlights include the traditional morning brass band parade through the town streets, evening musical performances, and grand symphonic concerts: recent editions featured the Fanfare of the Carabinieri Student Corps from Rome, with over forty musicians conducted by Maestro Danilo Di Silvestro. At midnight, the sky lights up with a fireworks display, one of the most awaited moments of the event, while the classic raffle concludes the festivities.

An event for the whole community

The festival is promoted by the parish of Beata Vergine Maria delle Grazie in collaboration with the municipal administration of Torre de' Passeri and the festival committee. Admission to all events is free. The event effectively marks the conclusion of the "Torrestate" summer program and brings the entire citizenry together in the square, amidst stalls, illuminations, and attractions for children.

Where and when

Events are concentrated between the parish church and Piazza Plebiscito in the historic center of Torre de' Passeri. The festival takes place in early September; the exact dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been officially announced.