Saint Michael the Archangel Festival (Patronal Feast of Aprilia)

The patronal feast of Aprilia

The Saint Michael the Archangel Festival is the main patronal feast of Aprilia, a city in the province of Latina, in southern Lazio. Saint Michael the Archangel is the city's patron saint, and his liturgical feast day falls on September 29th. Around this date, the municipality and the local community come together for three days of celebrations that weave together religious, civil, and popular elements.

Between faith and tradition

The spiritual heart of the festival is the Solemn Holy Mass in honor of the patron saint, followed by a procession that winds through the city center, accompanied by the "La Pontina – Città di Aprilia" marching band. This is the most heartfelt moment for the faithful, as the statue of the Saint is carried in a parade with the active participation of the citizens. The festival is deeply rooted in the recent history of Aprilia, a planned city founded in the 1930s that has rapidly grown into one of the most populous centers in the Lazio region.

Music and shows in Piazza Roma

Piazza Roma serves as the main stage for the festivities: every evening, free concerts or musical performances take place, ranging from tributes to great names in Italian music to themed shows. The final evening is traditionally capped off with a fireworks display that lights up the city sky.

The market and the city streets

During the three days, the streets of the center come alive with a second-hand and artisan market, food stalls, street vendors, and rides for children. There are also social initiatives, such as the open day hosted by the Italian Red Cross. The festival is organized by the Pro Loco of Aprilia APS with the patronage of the City of Aprilia.

An event for the whole community

The Saint Michael the Archangel Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the year in Aprilia: an occasion where the entire community gathers to celebrate its identity through devotion, music, and conviviality. Admission to all events is free, and the festival attracts visitors from neighboring towns in the province of Latina.