Pistoia’s Saint James Festival kicks off with red cloak ceremony in July 2026

Each year Pistoia celebrates its patron Saint James (San Jacopo) from July 16 to July 25. The 2026 edition begins on July 25 with the traditional red cloak being placed over the statue of the saint on the façade of the Cathedral of San Zeno, a ritual that marks the start of the festivities.

The program includes the historic Procession of the Candles, a pontifical Mass, Second Vespers, and a series of cultural events such as special museum openings. A highlight is the medieval jousting tournament, the Giostra dell’Orso, where the city’s four quarters compete in the Piazza del Duomo. The celebration draws thousands of local residents, pilgrims and tourists, reinforcing Pistoia’s identity as a historic pilgrimage stop often called the "little Santiago."