San Gaetano Festival in Scauri

The patronal feast of Scauri

Scauri is one of the most picturesque seaside villages on Pantelleria, a Mediterranean island in the Province of Trapani, Sicily. Each year, in early August, the Scauri community gathers to honor its patron saint, San Gaetano, for one of the most cherished events on the island's calendar. It is an occasion that unites religious devotion with popular conviviality in a village that comes alive with residents and visitors during the summer.

The triduum and the procession

The religious observance begins with a triduum of preparation at the church of Scauri, featuring the recitation of the Rosary, evening Holy Masses, and prayer moments such as the Via Lucis. On the day of the feast, typically August 7th, the celebration culminates with a solemn Holy Mass and the procession of the statue of San Gaetano through the village streets, accompanied by the faithful of the seaside community.

The evening celebration in Piazza Grande

After the procession, the festivities move to Piazza Grande, the heart of Scauri, where the famous pane cunzato festival takes place. This traditional Pantellerian seasoned bread is served alongside a glass of Zibibbo, the island's iconic sweet wine. The evening continues with live music, DJ sets, the traditional midnight pasta feast, and a grand finale of fireworks illuminating the sky over the Pantelleria sea.

Organizers

The festival is organized by the Associazione Crescere Insieme APS, in collaboration with the parish of Scauri and with the patronage of the Municipality of Pantelleria. It is a free, community-focused event that draws locals, vacationers, and tourists every summer in search of the authentic soul of Pantelleria.