The Procession to the Sea of Saint Basso is Termoli’s most heartfelt festival and takes place on August 3 and 4 each year. The event originated in 1761 when the sarcophagus containing the Saint’s relics, hidden by the bishop around 1200 B.C. to protect them from Saracen raids, was found during the restoration of the Cathedral. However, the procession also recalls a legend that some fishermen found the saint’s remains in a marble sarcophagus at sea, a symbol of the protection that St. Bass offers sailors.
On August 3, the statue of the saint is carried from the cathedral to the port and boarded on a fishing boat, chosen by drawing lots. Every Thermolese sailor aspires to this honor. The chosen boat is decked out and sets sail, followed by numerous boats laden with worshippers and tourists. A boat with a band accompanies the procession, performing religious and popular hymns. Offshore, a wreath is laid at sea, followed by the simultaneous sounding of fishing boat sirens, before returning to port. The statue then remains on display all night at the Fish Market, allowing the faithful to pay their respects.
On August 4, in the afternoon, the statue is carried in procession back to the Cathedral. The festivities culminate at midnight with an impressive fireworks display on Rio Vivo beach. Devotion to Saint Bass is so strong that on August 3 no one bathes in the sea for fear of drowning, according to an ancient popular belief.
The festival is enriched by musical events in the square, markets and various events that enliven Termoli on the days of celebration.