Patronal feast of San Lorenzo in Malfa

La patronal feast of San Lorenzo is an unmissable appointment for all the inhabitants of Malfa, a small town of less than a thousand inhabitants located on the north coast of theSalina islandin province of Messina.
The event is eagerly awaited just like Christmas as it is brought to life with food stands, market and live concerts.

History of the Patronal Festival in Malfa

The patronal feast in Malfa has always had the aim of venerating the martyrdom of San Lorenzo, who died brutally on a grill.
For this reason, according to aancient legend, the people who dig in the earth at exactly noon on August 10, find charcoal aimed at remembering the poor man.

When the patronal feast of San Lorenzo takes place in Malfa

The patronal feast of San Lorenzo in Malfa takes place on 9 and the 10 August of each year.
During these days, local families gather around the table as if they were celebrating Christmas.

Where the patronal feast takes place in Malfa

The splendid event is held both in Mother Church of Malfa, and in the surrounding streets, which are animated by stalls with handicraft and gastronomic products, shows of various kinds and musical entertainment.

What to do during the patronal feast of San Lorenzo in Malfa

If you come to Malfa to take part in the patronal feast, you will certainly not get bored, because you will have the opportunity to take part in numerous events, starting from the exciting procession, during which the statue of San Lorenzo is carried on the shoulder on the streets of the town by local authorities, members of the brotherhoods and simple faithful.
The procession is also accompanied by the musical band.
Once the religious function is over, it is time not only to taste the numerous culinary delicacies, but also to attend dances, songs, musical and pyrotechnic shows.
Before leaving the island, it is recommended to visit both the pretty historic center of Malfa characterized by white houses and craft shops, both the church of Sant'Anna.

This building, erected in the eighteenth century, houses several works of art, including a wooden sculpture dating back to 1925 depicting the Sacred Heart, the Madonna della Guardia painted in the twentieth century, the Madonna del Rosario created in the nineteenth century plus the Nativity of the Virgin of the 1742.

And if you want to take advantage of the situation and spend a few hours on the beach, it will be possible to choose between lidos and free stretches and make a stop in the famous Scario beach.

Finally, don't forget to look at the sky at nightfall, as you could spot shooting stars and make a wish!

How to get to Malfa to attend the patronal feast of San Lorenzo

Since Malfa is located on an island, it is necessary to arrive by boat hydrofoil or a ferry departing from the ports of Milazzo, Palermo or Messina.
Once landed, if you don't have a car, you should take a taxi or a bus managed by the local company or still rent a scooter to move freely in the country.