Abruzzo’s vibrant festival celebrations and rites of San Giovanni (St John the Baptist) combine the contrasting purifying elements of fire and water, creating a spectacle that ignites the senses and captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
The villages and towns that celebrate are a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and the deep-rooted traditions that have been passed down through generations and bring together pagan and Christian rites. Although the number of fire celebrations has decreased, water celebrations still sparkle, immerse yourself in the joyful ambience and embrace the magic of this extraordinary event.
Can’t make it, make Acqua di San Giovanni and Nocino at home with our recipe and read more about jumping the fire as a purifying rite!
Author: Sam Dunham
Sam is a very lucky midlife 'mamma' to A who is 11 and juggles her work as a self-employed freelance travel and food web content manager and copywriter and EFL teacher - she is the founder of English in the Woods. She is the co-founder of the social enterprises: The Abruzzo Blogger Community and Let's Blog Abruzzo. She is currently writing the book 'Abruzzo: Folk and Food.