Saint Vincent Festival

A village festival in the heart of the Modena Apennines

The Saint Vincent Festival is one of the most cherished events in Montorso, a small hamlet in the Municipality of Pavullo nel Frignano, in the Province of Modena, right in the heart of the Apennines. Dedicated to Saint Vincent Ferreri, the event traditionally takes place on the last weekend of July, combining the religious dimension of the patronal feast with the more convivial atmosphere of the food stands set up in the church square.

It's one of those festivals that tell the genuine identity of the Apennine Emilia-Romagna: no spectacular staging, but the pleasure of gathering, the care of the Parish Committee volunteers, and a cuisine that smells of tradition. For the inhabitants of Montorso and the surrounding areas, it's the summer highlight, capable of attracting even those who return to their hometown specifically for this occasion.

Handmade crescentine, queens of the feast

The true star of the festival is the food stand, where you can sample the famous handmade crescentine, Montorso's pride, along with other local specialties. The crescentine, cooked and served traditionally, are the symbol of simple and sincere mountain cuisine, offered here by volunteers as a gesture of hospitality rather than just a dining service.

Faith, music, and community

Alongside the food, the festival retains its religious heart. During the event days, the Holy Mass and the Way of the Cross are held, while Sunday is dedicated to the Solemn Mass with the blessing of children and, in traditional editions, the procession in honor of the patron saint. There's also live music in the square and entertainment that livens up the weekend evenings, involving local musical groups from the Pavullo area.

La Grota and sport on the trails

The festival is often linked to sports: in some editions, the festival has hosted La Grota, a running race along the mountain trails around Montorso, attracting enthusiasts from all over the province of Modena and turning the race into an opportunity to discover the Apennine landscape.

Why it's worth the trip to Montorso

Visiting the Saint Vincent Festival means connecting with the most authentic dimension of the Frignano region: a village, a community, a festival built by volunteers. It's the ideal experience for those seeking, far from large events, the true flavor of an Emilian village festival, made of crescentine, hospitality, and a deep connection with their own tradition.