On May 8 and 9 (and again on August 10), San Giuliano del Sannio celebrates its patron saint, Saint Nicholas, with great fervor. The festival stands out from all the others for a unique and thunderous element: the parade of the Riflemen of Saint Nicholas, who accompany the procession by shooting with ancient muzzle-loading arquebuses.
This tradition dates back to 1724, when the town’s archpriest welcomed a new wooden statue of the Saint with rifle shots, a sign of joy and devotion. Since then, the ritual has been repeated every year, transforming the town into a riot of sounds and colors.
The celebrations begin on May 8 with a first parade in the late afternoon, continuing until the evening. On May 9, a new procession begins in the late morning, bringing the statue and a lot of noise through the streets of the town. The climax, at lunchtime, in the main square, in front of the Town Hall, where the riflemen gather and take turns shooting. The event ends in the early afternoon. The day of celebration ends with stalls, rides, music and the traditional fireworks, which echo the riflemen’s shots.
A special event, fascinating and rich in history, which is worth attending at least once in your life. If you decide to go, earplugs are highly recommended!