San Giacomo Maggiore Patronal Feast

The Patronal Feast of Alpignano

Saint James the Greater, apostle and brother of John the Evangelist, is the patron saint of Alpignano, a town on the western outskirts of Turin in Piedmont. Every year, around his feast day on July 25th, the town gathers around the parish of San Martino Vescovo for two days of festivities that blend religious devotion with popular, convivial celebrations. It is one of the most cherished events in the Alpignano calendar: a community moment that fills the historic squares with stalls, music, and the aromas of local cuisine.

Markets, Music, and Community

On Saturday, the festival comes to life with a market set up in the charming Piazza Parrocchia and Piazza Caduti, where exhibitors offer artisanal products, delicacies, and curiosities. The evening is dedicated to fine dining with a dinner served in the oratory of the San Martino Vescovo parish by local volunteers. The soundtrack is provided by a concert from the historic Società Filarmonica di Alpignano, while in Piazza Caduti, the party continues late into the night with the Harmony Show orchestra.

Sunday: Faith and Tradition

Sunday is the religious heart of the festival: at 10:00 AM, a solemn Holy Mass is celebrated in the San Martino Vescovo parish church, followed by the traditional procession carrying the patron saint's statue through the streets of Alpignano. After the devotional moments, the celebration continues in Piazza Parrocchia with an "aperipranzo" (aperitif-lunch) organized by the parish, an auction of the "I colori del Palio" artworks, dance performances by the l'Etoile school of Alpignano, and other original entertainment.

An Event for the Whole Community

The San Giacomo Maggiore Patronal Feast is organized by the San Martino Vescovo Parish in collaboration with the Pro Loco and local associations. Free and open to all, it is the perfect opportunity to discover Alpignano, its traditions, and the hospitality of a community that has renewed its bond with its patron saint for generations in the heart of the Piedmontese summer.