Saint Anthony Festival

The Saint Anthony celebrations in Contigliano

The Saint Anthony Festival is the most cherished event of the summer in Contigliano, a medieval village nestled in the Holy Valley of Rieti, in the Lazio region. Every year in June, the community gathers to honor the saint with an extensive program of religious services and secular festivities that enliven the town for several days, drawing in residents, families, and visitors from neighboring towns.

Four nights at Villa Franceschini

The heart of the secular festivities beats at Villa Franceschini Park, which serves as the open-air stage for the event for four consecutive nights. The schedule is designed for all ages and musical tastes: from dance orchestras and live performances to tribute bands and a grand finale dedicated to 90s music, closing the festival in an atmosphere of joy and great participation.

• Dance orchestras and ballroom music
• Live shows and entertainment
• Tribute bands honoring music legends
• Themed 90s music finale

Food and family

Music isn't the only star of the show. Every evening, food stalls are open, allowing guests to dine within the festival area while enjoying traditional dishes and local specialties in a convivial setting. There is also plenty of space for children, with inflatable games and activities designed for families, making the event suitable for all generations.

Faith and popular tradition

The festival is promoted by the Saint Anthony Celebration Committee in collaboration with the local parish and devotional association. It maintains its religious roots alongside the entertainment, featuring celebrations in honor of the saint, a marching band, and active community participation. It is the authentic expression of a village festival that brings together devotion, identity, and the joy of togetherness.

Contigliano and the Holy Valley

Visiting the Saint Anthony Festival is also the perfect opportunity to discover Contigliano, a village overlooking the Rieti basin, home to the monumental Collegiate Church of San Michele Arcangelo and a charming medieval historic center. The area is crossed by the Way of St. Francis, which connects the Franciscan sanctuaries of the Holy Valley, offering breathtaking views that stretch as far as Mount Terminillo and the lakes of Lungo and Ripasottile.