BARI - The celebrations for San Nicola, the patron saint of Bari, kicked off on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with a notable flyover by the Frecce Tricolori, Italy's national aerobatic team. The event, scheduled for 11:30 AM, was confirmed despite a recent incident involving three of the team's aircraft at Pantelleria airport the day before.
On May 6, during a training exercise, two Frecce Tricolori aircraft reportedly made contact, leading to one plane going off the runway and losing a wheel. One of the pilots, 32-year-old Luca Battistoni, sustained minor injuries and was taken to the hospital with a suspected leg fracture. A second aircraft suffered wing damage. Fortunately, all pilots managed to land safely, and the Air Force confirmed that the flyover in Bari would still proceed as planned.
The formation for today's flyover will consist of seven aircraft, with one typically grounded commander participating due to the incident. This adjustment reflects the team's commitment to honoring their connection with Bari, a relationship that dates back to 1987 when the Frecce Tricolori were designated as 'ambassadors of San Nicola' by the Dominican community of the Basilica Pontificia.
As the jets soared over the city, they filled the sky with the traditional green, white, and red smoke, symbolizing the Italian flag. The flyover was part of a transfer flight from Sicily to the Frecce Tricolori's base in Rivolto, ensuring that residents and visitors could witness this spectacular display from various vantage points along the waterfront and other locations throughout Bari.
Following the aerial display, festivities continued with a series of events celebrating San Nicola. At 11:00 AM, a twinning agreement was signed between Bari and Cesa, a town in Caserta, at the City Hall, further strengthening communal ties through shared devotion to the saint.
Later in the day, at 6:00 PM, attendees gathered at Baia San Giorgio for a procession and Holy Mass, celebrated by Father Giovanni Distante. This spiritual gathering will culminate in the embarkation of the painting of San Nicola, which is a central part of the celebrations.
At 8:30 PM, the historical parade will commence from Piazza Federico II, featuring over 650 performers, including figurants, musicians, and dancers. This year, the parade is dedicated to the memory of Nicola Valenzano, a notable director who contributed significantly to the event over the years. Antonella Ruggiero, renowned for her powerful voice, will serve as the patron of the 2025 edition of the Historical Parade.
The parade will also showcase a unique integration of live music, with an orchestra and choir performing classical pieces. A dance performance titled 'San Nicola – Santo senza confini' will be part of the festivities, directed by Elisa Barucchieri. This year’s event promises to be a vibrant celebration, highlighting the cultural heritage of Bari and the significance of San Nicola.
As the evening progresses, the historical procession is expected to reach the Basilica of San Nicola around 10:00 PM, where further celebrations will take place. The festivities will continue through May 8, culminating in a fireworks display on the evening of May 9, marking the end of the three-day celebration.
Traffic restrictions and parking bans are in effect throughout the city on this festive day to accommodate the large crowds expected for the celebrations. Authorities have implemented a comprehensive mobility plan, including designated parking areas and shuttle services to facilitate the movement of attendees.
Despite the challenges posed by the incident in Pantelleria, the spirit of San Nicola remains strong in Bari, as the community comes together to celebrate their patron saint with pride and joy.
