Saint James Festival
The patronal feast of Rio nell'Elba, blending faith, tradition, and entertainment in Piazza del Popolo
About Saint James Festival
The patronal feast of Rio nell'Elba
The Saint James Festival is the most important event for the community of Rio nell'Elba, an ancient mining village perched on the heights of the eastern side of the Island of Elba, now a district of the Municipality of Rio, in the Province of Livorno (Tuscany). Every year, on July 25th, the town gathers around its patron saint, Saint James the Apostle (Saint James the Greater), for a day that unites the religious dimension with popular, festive spirit.
Between devotion and tradition
The spiritual heart of the festival is the Church of Saints James and Quiricus, a building of medieval origin modified over the centuries, which houses Baroque altars and a 17th-century canvas by Giovanni da San Giovanni. In the morning, the Solemn Holy Mass is followed by a procession that winds through the alleys of the historic center, among the typical stone houses of the miners' and windmills' village. It is a deeply felt moment where the local community renews an ancient bond with its patron saint.
Evening in Piazza del Popolo
As night falls, the festival changes its face and Piazza del Popolo becomes the stage for civil celebrations: acrobats, music, and cabaret enliven the village's main square with entertainment shows, aerial performances, and moments of pure fun for all ages. The atmosphere is that of a classic Elban summer festival, with the public filling the square and surrounding streets until late.
A beloved event on the Island of Elba
The Saint James Festival is organized by the Municipal Administration of Rio in collaboration with the local Pro Loco and is included in the island's rich summer calendar. More than just an event, it is a gathering opportunity for the community and the many visitors who, in the height of the beach season, discover the authentic charm of Rio nell'Elba, away from the most crowded beaches and immersed in a landscape of hills, historic mines, and ancient windmills.
- When: July 25th, patron saint's day
- Where: Rio nell'Elba (Municipality of Rio, Province of Livorno, Tuscany)
- What: Holy Mass, procession, evening shows in Piazza del Popolo
Saint James Festival โ edition 2026
Saint James Festival 2026
The patronal feast of Rio nell'Elba returns on Saturday, July 25, 2026, on the day of Saint James the Apostle. As per tradition, the morning program includes Solemn Holy Mass and a procession through the streets of the historic center, while in the evening, Piazza del Popolo hosts entertainment shows.
Based on recent editions, the evening will feature acrobats, music, and cabaret, with aerial performances and entertainment for all ages. The detailed program and final times for the 2026 edition will be communicated by the Rio municipal administration and the Pro Loco closer to the festival date.
Programme Saint James Festival 2026
The detailed program for the 2026 edition, including final times and events, will be announced by the Rio municipal administration and the Pro Loco in the weeks leading up to the festival.
Based on tradition and recent editions, the day is tentatively structured as follows:
Saturday, July 25 โ Saint James Patron Saint Day
- Morning โ Solemn Holy Mass at the Church of Saints James and Quiricus
- Followed by โ Traditional procession through the streets of the historic center
- Evening, Piazza del Popolo โ Evening show with acrobats, music, and cabaret and aerial performances
Highlights Saint James Festival 2026
- The feast of the patron saint Saint James, the most cherished event in Rio nell'Elba
- The traditional procession in the mining village
- The evening show in Piazza del Popolo with acrobats, music, and cabaret
Prices Saint James Festival 2026
Practical information — Saint James Festival
How to get there
Rio nell'Elba can be reached by ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio (frequent connections in summer), then continuing by car toward the eastern side of the island (about 20 km). Alternatively, you can disembark at Rio Marina or Cavo. By car from Portoferraio, follow the signs for Rio nell'Elba along the provincial road.
Where it takes place
Evening events are held in Piazza del Popolo, in the historic center of the village. The Holy Mass and the procession start from the Church of Saints James and Quiricus.
Tips
The festival falls in the height of the summer season: it is advisable to book accommodation in advance and organize travel taking ferry schedules into account. Admission to the shows in the square is free.
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Where does it take place โ Saint James Festival
Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo, 57039 Rio nell'Elba