The history of the Grain Festival begins in 1805, the year of the Bojano earthquake that devastated Molise, but caused little damage to Jelsi. The main quake occurred on July 26, St. Anne’s Day, and the inhabitants attributed the miracle to the saint. To thank her, they decided to dedicate a festival to her, choosing wheat, a symbol of wealth and prosperity, the gold of the peasants.
Since then, every year on July 26, the Wheat Festival is repeated with rituals and celebrations. Preparations begin weeks before with the reaping in a field a short distance from the town. This moment is already an event, accompanied by the farmer’s breakfast of eggs, bread, sausage and fried peppers.
Once the grain has been harvested, the village is set up. Walking through the streets in the days leading up to the festival, women can be seen braiding ears of corn to create long braids to hang from lamp posts and balconies. In the garages and sheds, meanwhile, artisans and volunteers work on making the floats, gluing grains and ears of corn with patience and dedication.
July 26 is the climax of the festival. The day begins with the blessing of floats and traglie, which are displayed in the village before departure. Mid-morning sees the big parade, which lasts until lunchtime, involving the whole community. In the evening, the traditional concert closes the festivities.
The Wheat Festival is an extraordinary event because of its history, participation, and the beauty of the works created. The advice is to mark July 26 on your calendar and experience the excitement of Jelsi in person.