The Feast of St Francis of Assisi

The Feast of St Francis or the Franciscan Festival in the city of Assisi is a significant event celebrated every year on 4th October. During this time, there is a wide variety of events and activities honouring the life and legacy of St Francis of Assisi, the founder of the communities living according to the monastic rules he wrote.

The festival often begins with solemn church services in the Basilica of St Francis and other churches in the city. Dignitaries of the Catholic Church and Christian pilgrims from all over the world gather to attend the masses and express their veneration for the Saint. One of the outstanding events during the Franciscan Festival is the processions through Assisi’s narrow streets. Pilgrims and locals carry a statue of St Francis through the city, singing hymns as they go.

In addition to the religious celebrations, there are also cultural events such as concerts, theatre performances and art exhibitions that pay tribute to the legacy of St Francis and the culture of Assisi. The Franciscan Festival also commemorates the mercy and social responsibility embodied by St Francis. Therefore, charitable activities are often carried out during the festival, such as soup kitchens for the needy or fundraising campaigns for charitable causes. During the festival, the streets of Assisi often feature market stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs and gastronomic specialities. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase authentic products from the region and experience Umbria’s rich cultural heritage.

The Franciscan Festival is a special time in Assisi that celebrates the spiritual and cultural significance of St Francis, while also highlighting the city’s vibrant, contemporary atmosphere. It is an opportunity for pilgrims and visitors, who may not feel connected to the Christian tradition, to gather to pray, celebrate, or simply enjoy the beauty of Assisi together in a peaceful atmosphere.