Saint Nicholas Festival

The 2025 edition of the Saint Nicholas Festival brought Bari to life from April 28 to May 22. The Historical Pageant on May 7, themed "Bari of Saint Nicholas, joyful memories for a future of peace," departed at 20:30 from Piazza Federico II di Svevia with over 650 costumed participants, concluding in front of the Basilica; the special godmother of the edition was singer Antonella Ruggiero. On May 8, the Sea Procession carried the saint's statue from the pier out to sea on a fishing boat, amidst the dawn mass, the blessing of the sea, and, in the evening, the landing with the lighting of illuminations and the fireworks display at Molo Sant'Antonio. On May 9, the solemn concelebration with the collection of the Holy Manna was held, while on May 22, the festival concluded with the Orthodox liturgy according to the Julian calendar.