Saint Anthony of Padua Festival in Zagarolo

A defining celebration in the heart of the Colli Prenestini

Every year, coinciding with the liturgical feast on June 13th, the town of Zagarolo — a historic village in the Colli Prenestini, located in the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Lazio — celebrates the Feast of Saint Anthony of Padua. It is one of the most cherished events for the local community: a two-day program that unites deep religious devotion with long-standing popular traditions, turning the squares and alleys of the historic center into a vibrant stage for celebration.

The religious dimension: Triduum, masses, and procession

The spiritual heart of the festival is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where the Confraternity of Saint Anthony of Padua has guarded the cult of the Saint for generations. The celebrations are preceded by a preparatory triduum and culminate in the Solemn Mass on the day of the feast. This is followed by the most anticipated moment: the procession with the statue of Saint Anthony, which winds through the main streets of the ancient town center accompanied by a brass band, with the participation of civil and religious authorities, historic confraternities, and numerous faithful.

The blessed bread of Saint Anthony

Among the most cherished Zagarolo traditions is the distribution of blessed bread, known as the "bread of Saint Anthony," which honors the Saint's historical charity toward the poor. It is a simple, ancient gesture that still brings families together today, strengthening the bond between the community and its spiritual patron of June.

Illuminations, stalls, and music: The popular spirit

Alongside the liturgical functions, the festival thrives on a deeply rooted civic and community dimension. For the occasion, the historic center is adorned with traditional artistic illuminations, while the streets host food stalls offering local specialties and small craft markets. There is no shortage of live musical entertainment, performances, and cultural activities designed for all ages, keeping the village lively until late at night.

Zagarolo, a village to discover

The festival is also an excellent opportunity to explore Zagarolo, an elegant medieval village perched on a tuff spur between Rome and Palestrina. The historic center, dominated by the monumental Palazzo Rospigliosi, preserves Baroque churches, stone portals, and evocative views of the Colli Prenestini. The town is also known for its food and wine traditions, from the Castelli Romani wines to the famous "tordo matto," a typical local dish celebrated in another historic summer festival.

The 2026 edition

The 2026 edition took place on Friday, June 12th, and Saturday, June 13th, confirming the established formula: solemn liturgies and processions through the center on one hand, and illuminations, stalls, and live music on the other. The organization saw the collaboration of the parish, local committees, the municipal administration, volunteer associations, and the Civil Protection, demonstrating how much this festival is a true pillar of identity for the entire Zagarolo community.