INSIDE THE PARADE, BEYOND THE LEGEND
HISTORY OF THE PARADE
The Parade of Saint Nicholas is a reenactment that celebrates the veneration of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of Bari, and retraces the significant events of his life and arrival in the city. It serves as a moment to honor his memory and to strengthen the spiritual and cultural bond among fellow citizens.
This tradition has roots that go back centuries and today offers a unique opportunity to relive history through music and dances that bring medieval Bari back to life. It is a celebration that unites faith and tradition, turning the city each year into the vibrant heart of one of the most fascinating and widely attended cultural events in Southern Italy.
THE SCHEDULE
It takes place every year from May 6th to 9th, with the highlight on the 6th and 7th. During these days, in addition to the parade, a variety of cultural, musical, and religious events are organized throughout the city. Concerts, dance performances, and historical reenactments alternate with moments of spiritual reflection, drawing in both tourists and locals who share a deep passion for tradition.
HOW IT UNFOLDS
It comes to life in the streets of Bari, involving thousands of people. Participants, dressed in period costumes representing historical figures connected to the life of Saint Nicholas, march alongside allegorical floats, horses, and musical groups in a procession that begins at the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and winds through the historic center, culminating at the port. There, a reenactment of the translation of the Saint’s relics takes place in an atmosphere of deep devotion and widespread public participation. Tourists and pilgrims from around the world take part in this celebration, which serves as a moment of unity and pride for the local community.
CITY EVENTS
Alongside the Parade, Bari offers a series of events that make the occasion even more special. Live concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances animate the squares and streets of the city. Illuminations light up the center, while local restaurants and shops offer traditional dishes and handcrafted products in honor of the celebration. The city becomes a stage for culture, tradition, and spirituality.
RETRACE THE KEY STAGES IN THE HISTORY OF THE PARADE
A JOURNEY THORUGH FAITH, TRADITION, AND HISTORY: FROM THE SECRET EXPEDTION TO MYRA IN 1087 TO THE PRESENT DAY
End of Byzantine rule in Bari
This event marked the end of a period of crisis for the city, characterized by internal tensions and economic decline.
A group of sailors organizes a secret expedition to Myra
Driven by faith and the desire to steal the relics of Saint Nicholas and bring them to Bari, a group of 62 men set out from Bari to transfer the saint's bones from Myra, a route frequently followed by Bari's ships.
The sailors steal the saint's bones
The relics were handed over to Abbot Elia, Bishop of Bari. The Eucharistic celebration is held, a moment of great ecclesial communion with the diocesan pastor who invokes the Holy Spirit so that the miracle of the Manna may be realized.
The primacy of Bari is restored – no longer political, but religious
Following the arrival of Saint Nicholas' relics and the defeat of the Byzantines, Bari regained prestige and importance, which is still experienced today with the arrival of tourists and pilgrims. The translation of the relics helped revive the city, transforming it into a major pilgrimage center and revitalizing its economy.
Transformation of historical reenactment
The current division between the "secular" parade and the religious procession begins: a clear distinction was made between the reenactment procession and the religious one.
Establishment of the historical parade
Until the last century, the devotion of pilgrims made them arrive in Bari on foot, even from other regions. The need arose to create an event, a spectacle that could give substance to their efforts and allow the faithful to participate in the May 8th procession.
Renewal and innovation
The historical procession is renewed with the introduction of new technologies, set designs, and choreography, keeping the tradition alive and attracting an ever-growing audience.
Historical Parade of Saint Nicholas
The procession becomes an event that sweeps through the city of Bari and unites everyone, like a wave.