Saint Lucy Festival – Ballo della Pupa

Saint Lucy 2025 in Francavilla al Mare

The 2025 edition of the Saint Lucy Festival was held on December 13th in the San Franco district of Francavilla al Mare, in the province of Chieti. After the thirteen morning bell tolls, the evening featured mass and a procession with the effigy of Saint Lucy from the Santa Maria Maggiore church, including the laying of a floral tribute at the Saint's feet.

Upon the return of the procession, the square welcomed the traditional Ballo della Pupa: the large papier-mâché puppet, animated by a person hidden inside, danced while the fireworks sewn onto the dress were ignited progressively, leading up to the final pyrotechnic Catherine wheel. A popular evening of celebration that confirmed the vitality of this Abruzzese tradition.