Feast of St Francis of Paola

Patron Saint of Calabria, St Francis of Paola is liturgically commemorated on the day of his birth, 2 April, but his hometown, Paola, in the province of Cosenza, welcomes the faithful and pilgrims with a great celebration held every year on 4 May.

The Feast of St Francis of Paola includes several moments involving the faithful, pilgrims and ordinary visitors who flock to the Shrine of St Francis in large numbers. It begins with the lighting of the votive lamp (2 May) and continues with the blessing of the sea (3 May), concluding the following day with the procession of the silver bust of the patron saint through the streets of the city.

Each year, the rich religious programme is complemented by musical and convivial events that include fairs, concerts and fireworks displays.