Cocullo's Serpari Festival (Snake Festival) is the perfect
example. This quiet town in the Abruzzo region comes to life the first Thursday
in May. On that day, a statue of Saint Domenico di Sora is carried through the
city draped with live snakes. It is believed that the disappearance of snakes
in the fields is the work of the city's patron saint and the inhabitants have
been carrying this tradition as a gesture of thanks every year since 1392.
The Sposalizio dell'Albero (Wedding of the Trees) is held on May 8th in
the Lazio town of Vetralla. Beautiful garlands ornate two oak trees, bunches of
spring flowers are being distributed and new trees are being planted. All
spectators also enjoy a free meal in the form of a picnic. This day marks the
town's rights over the forests and renews the firewood allowance of each
citizen.
Calendimaggio also takes place
early may in the town of Assisi in Umbria. The two ancient districts, the Parte di Sopra and the Parte di Sotto, confront each other in
many disciplines such as theatre, dance, archery, songs and flag-waving. The
contestants are clad in historical costumes and joust in a fabulous setting of
floral decorations and torches.
On May 15th the Corsa dei Ceri (Race of the Candles)
happens in Gubbio, in Umbria too. Of ancient and religious origin, the race
sees three massive wooden candles, each with a statue of one the city's saints on
top, being carried all through the streets. At the end of the day they will be
making their way back up the hill to be placed in the Basilica of Saint Ubaldo
again.
The Festa delle Cantine aperte consists of 44 wine producers in Umbria
simultaneously opening their domains to the many visitors and organising wine
tastings.
The Sagra del Risotto is
organised in the Piemontese town of Sessame the first Sunday in May and dates
back to the 13th century. You certainly will not go hungry.
Saint Fortunato, patron saint
of the fishermen, is commemorated in the picturesque village of Camogli, close
to Genoa. The festival is held on the second Sunday of May, but on the Saturday
there is also a beautiful fireworks display and a bonfire competition.
And let's close this selection
with... Pinocchio's birthday! It is celebrated on May 25th in Pescia, Tuscany.
There is also a Pinocchio Park in Collodi, not far from Pescia.
Author: K J S
