Sant'Anna Festival

A Village Festival in the Modena Apennines

The Sant'Anna Festival is the summer festival of the small village of Lavacchio, a hamlet of the Municipality of Pavullo nel Frignano, in the heart of the Modena Apennines in Emilia-Romagna. Dedicated to Saint Anne, the festival is one of the most cherished events of the Frignano summer: an event born from popular devotion that, year after year, gathers the inhabitants of the village and visitors from neighboring towns.

The Painted Village of Lavacchio

Lavacchio is no ordinary village: it is known as the painted village because its walls are decorated with works of painting, ceramics, mosaic, and sculpture created for the "Sui Muri di Lavacchio" Art Biennial. The inhabitants of the village are nicknamed "The Thieves," and a ceramic sculpture commemorates this historic nickname. Walking through the streets of Lavacchio during the festival means immersing yourself in an open-air exhibition, surrounded by the green hills of the Frignano.

The Festival Program

The festival takes place over three evenings, generally around the second half of July. The event opens on Friday with the traditional night torchlight procession through the village streets, a religious and evocative moment that kicks off the celebrations. On the weekend, Saturday and Sunday, the village comes alive from the early evening:

• Food stalls with typical products from the Modena Apennines, managed by the Lavacchio hamlet group;
• Live music and evening entertainment;
• Fun for children, with activities designed for families.

In some editions, the festival has also hosted the inauguration of the winning works of the "Sui Muri di Lavacchio" Art Biennial, with free guided tours of the painted village, awards ceremonies, poetry readings, and music.

Flavors of the Apennines

As in any authentic village festival, gastronomy is the star. The stalls offer traditional peasant dishes from the Frignano and Modena Apennines, a perfect opportunity to savor the typical products of the area in a convivial and family atmosphere.

An Event Not to Be Missed

Organized by the local parish together with the "Il Borgo di Lavacchio" Cultural Association, the Sant'Anna Festival is more than just a celebration: it is the way a small community in the Modena Apennines preserves and shares its roots. An opportunity to discover a little-known corner of the province of Modena, amidst art, tradition, and good food.