Ri-Falò (St. Joseph's Bonfire)

Ri-Falò: When the St. Joseph's fire returns to Valenzano

Every year around March 19th, the feast day of St. Joseph, Valenzano rediscovers one of the most cherished traditions of Apulian folklore: the St. Joseph's bonfire. The Ri-Falò project, promoted by the Belle Storie ODV association with the support of the Municipality of Valenzano, brought this custom back to life in 2024, restoring it to the community as a moment of collective celebration in the heart of the town center.

A folk tradition linked to the patron saint of artisans

St. Joseph is the protector of carpenters and artisans, and throughout Puglia, his feast day has been celebrated for centuries with huge piles of wood lit at crossroads and in town squares. The fire symbolically marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring: people gather around the flames, share traditional roasted chickpeas, and enjoy a moment of community. In Valenzano, this collective memory had been fading, and Ri-Falò was born to reignite it, blending devotional value with cultural and social significance.

What happens in Largo Frate Francesco

The heart of the event is the lighting of the great bonfire in Largo Frate Francesco, around which the entire evening revolves. Past editions have featured:

• Fire-eater shows that animate the square with displays of flame;
• Re-enactments by the I Templari group, experts in historical martial arts, featuring medieval costumed combat;
• Food and wine stalls showcasing traditional flavors, with roasted chickpeas offered to all attendees;
• Local craft stands along the festival area.

A blend of the sacred and the profane that weaves together popular devotion, live entertainment, and local flavors in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

Valenzano and the Metropolitan City of Bari

Valenzano is a town in the metropolitan area of Bari, just a few kilometers from the regional capital. Ri-Falò fits into the town's rich calendar of traditional events, alongside manifestations like the ancient All Saints' Fair, and helps to enhance the identity and historical memory of the Valenzano community. Admission to the festival is free, designed to engage residents and visitors of all ages.