Lucera and Erice host August patron saint celebrations in Italy

The city of Lucera in Apulia will mark the feast of Santa Maria Assunta with a three‑week program from August 3 to 16, featuring a novena, contemporary art exhibition, medieval village reenactments, concerts by local bands, a historic torch‑lit procession and the traditional lighting of the fortress.

In Sicily, Erice is preparing its 2026 patronal festivities for Santa Maria di Custonaci from August 16 to 27. The schedule includes a torch procession, a week‑long novena, musical performances, a Verdi concert, a mayoral parade and a solemn mass presided over by Archbishop Alessandro Damiano. Both towns expect thousands of faithful and visitors to take part in the religious and cultural events.