Saint James the Greater Patronal Feast

The most cherished event of the year in Gavi

The Saint James the Greater Patronal Feast is the most anticipated summer event in Gavi, an elegant village in the Province of Alessandria, in south-eastern Piedmont, just a few kilometers from the Ligurian border. Every year, around July 25th, the liturgical day of Saint James the Apostle, the Municipality and the parish pay homage to the patron saint with a program that combines religious, civic, and popular elements in a festival with ancient roots that draws back to the village even those who have moved away but remain tied to their origins.

Between faith and tradition

The spiritual heart of the feast is the solemn Holy Mass celebrated in the Parish Church of Saint James the Greater, a building of medieval origins that gives the event its name. Surrounding the liturgy are the civic festivities, organized by the Municipality of Gavi together with the Pro Loco and local associations, which bring the historic center to life for several days with music, gastronomy, and community gatherings.

Brass band concert and fireworks

Among the most traditional highlights is the brass band concert in Piazza Martiri della Benedicta, usually performed by the Corpo Musicale Romualdo Marenco of Novi Ligure, one of the area's historic bands. Also a must-see, barring safety or drought-related restrictions, is the evening fireworks display that illuminates the sky above the village and the famous Forte di Gavi.

The fair and gastronomy

The final day is dedicated to the Saint James general goods fair, which fills the streets of the historic center with stalls selling clothing, handicrafts, local products, and gastronomic specialties. The Gavi Pro Loco hosts evenings such as the AperistreetFood, featuring aperitifs, street food, and DJ sets, while the territory offers the perfect opportunity to discover the great white wines based on the Cortese grape that have made Gavi famous worldwide.

A village to discover

The feast is also a great occasion to visit Gavi and its imposing Forte, a fortress that dominates the village and is often opened to the public during the festivities. Strolling through the 'caruggi' (narrow alleys) of the historic center, among churches, palaces, and wine cellars, completes the experience of one of the most characteristic patronal feasts in southern Piedmont.