August 29, 2026 – September 8, 2026 · Banzi (PZ)
The community of Banzi celebrates its Patroness, Santa Maria, with a rich program of religious and civil events. The festivities include masses, novenas, processions, and entertainment with music and fireworks. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the local tradition and spirituality.
Join us for a week of celebration! The festivities kick off on SATURDAY, AUGUST 29th at 6:00 PM with the Sacrament of Confirmation presided over by S.E. Mons. Francesco Sirufo, Archbishop of Acerenza. From AUGUST 30th to SEPTEMBER 7th, a NOVENA IN ONORE DI S. MARIA DI BANZI will be held daily, featuring the Holy Rosary, Vespers, and Holy Mass. SUNDAY, AUGUST 30th at 7:00 PM marks the opening with a spectacular fireworks display. On WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2nd, after the Novena prayers, don Antonio Mattatelli will lead a special meeting at 7:30 PM titled 'The Role of Mary in the Spiritual Battle Against the Power of Darkness.' SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6th includes Holy Mass at 11:00 AM, followed by the Novena. In the afternoon, head to Piazza E. Gianturco at 5:00 PM for a 2 vs 2 cage tournament, and later at 10:00 PM, enjoy a live concert by DROPS. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7th features Holy Mass at 11:00 AM and the Novena, concluding with a Marian Torchlight Procession at 7:30 PM, followed by the blessing of oil and lighting of the votive lamp. The 2 vs 2 cage tournament continues at 5:00 PM in Piazza E. Gianturco, and at 10:00 PM, dance the night away with SESTO LISCIO VERO. The grand finale on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8th begins with opening fireworks at 7:00 AM. At 8:00 AM, the 'F. Zotta' band from Genzano, directed by M° Rosario De Luca, will parade through the streets. Holy Mass is at 11:00 AM, followed by a 6:00 PM Mass and procession with the image of the Madonna. The celebrations culminate at 10:00 PM in Piazza E. Gianturco with a RICCHI E POVERI TRIBUTE concert, followed by closing fireworks by Padovano Giovanni from Genzano di Lucania.