The first weekend of January 2025 is set to be vibrant and rich with events across Benevento and the Sannio region, as communities come together to celebrate the Epiphany. From concerts to living nativity scenes and traditional food fairs, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Kicking off on Friday, January 3, the schedule features diverse offerings. At 5:00 PM, Casa Pisani will host "La Strenna dei Magi," which combines the themes of the Holy Year with cultural insights, spotlighting the bronze door of the Cathedral and the film "La divina cometa" created by Mimmo Paladino. This event promises to engage audiences through insightful discussions, with notable contributions from Maria Rosaria Marotti and others, all free to attend.
Meanwhile, the sweet aroma of traditional sweets will fill the air as the celebrations continue at the Fabbriche Riunite on Viale Principe di Napoli. Starting at the same hour, families are invited to participate in the Befana's sock raffle, promising excitement for the children involved.
One of the season’s highlights, the Sagra della Panorra, will run from January 3 to 6, hosted by the association “A Panorra” and the town of Amorosi. This sixth edition focuses on the Panorra, a beloved local dish made with leftover bread, beans, vegetables, and spices. Attendees can sample this rustic delight at festive stalls, coupled with music and entertainment.
Elsewhere, literature lovers can look forward to the book presentation of "Musica e Musicisti in Provincia di Benevento" at Solopaca, alongside musical performances set to captivate audiences. At the same time, Montesarchio will witness classical melodies during the "Violini in festa" concert.
Saturday, January 4, starts at the San Pio hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with the “Festa del prematuro,” honoring the courage of premature infants and the expertise of the health staff who support them. Later, BeeNsto will come alive for the SuperSkillz finale at 9:30 PM, promising exhilarating entertainment and community spirit.
Significant theatrical presentations also line the day, as the amateur theater group "Compagnia del Genio" pays homage to Edoardo Scarpetta at Casa Santa Rita, with performances set for both January 4 and 5.
Sunday, January 5 sees the Chiostro dell'Ospedale Sacro Cuore di Gesù hosting the engaging artistic initiative named the “Circo Bianco.” It combines community spirit and artistry, showcasing music and color as it strives to brighten the lives of attendees with its performances.
Meanwhile, the area continues its commitment to supporting local sports teams, presenting general visibility during games at the Stadio Ciro Vigorito, where community teams like the U.S. Rugby Benevento and A.S.D. Castelpoto will participate and engage fans during half-time. The arena will echo with excitement as these local heroes take center stage.
Later the same day, Benevento's Fiera del Bagagliaio will take place at the picturesque Limatola, bringing together vintage treasures, local produce, and delights for children, making it a perfect finale to the festive season, all starting at 10:00 AM.
The weekend culminates on Monday, January 6, with the highly anticipated "Palio dei Presepi" awards ceremony at San Domenico Church at 7:00 PM following the Epiphany Mass. This ceremony wraps up the initiative "Percorsi di Luce," highlighting the communal spirit and focus on cultural beauty and engagement throughout the region's festive period.
Traditions are at the heart of this celebratory weekend, as locals recall the story of the Magi through the renowned "Cavalcata dei Re Magi" at Airola. Now within its 13th edition, this event reconstructs the historical visit of the Three Wise Men, connecting the past with present celebrations.
Children can look forward to various celebratory activities, including "La Befana dello Schiapparelli" at Montesarchio, and the living nativity at Bucciano, ensuring all families find joy throughout the weekend.
Such events promise to strengthen community ties and create new memories, as Benevento and the Sannio region enter 2025 together joyfully and meaningfully.