July 8, 2026 – July 12, 2026 · Pollenza (MC)
Experience the heart of Italian tradition and community in Pollenza with the Giornata del Ringraziamento e Festa delle Canestrelle. This event offers a rich program blending religious ceremonies with lively recreational activities. From prayers and masses to engaging theater shows, sports tournaments, and evening concerts, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the food stands serving local specialties like penne all'arrabbiata, arista con rucola, moccolotti, and roasted goose, alongside the traditional Canestrelle parade.
Indulge in authentic local flavors at the food stands, featuring hearty first courses like moccolotti with goose sauce and classic penne all'arrabbiata. For main dishes, savor succulent roasted goose or arista (pork loin) with fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, and Grana cheese. Don't forget to try the crispy fried potatoes and, for a sweet treat, the traditional ciambellina.
📅 Wednesday, July 8 9:15 PM: Prayer for world peace and testimony from the 'Gruppo Devoti di Santa Rita' pilgrims (at the Oratorio). 📅 Thursday, July 9 7:00 PM: 'Sconosciuti artisti originali' – Exhibition opening, remaining open for the entire festival. 9:15 PM: 🎭 Theater show: 'Wanted' Musical by a local amateur company. 📅 Friday, July 10 10:00 AM: Holy Mass (at the Retirement Home). From 4:00 PM: ⚽ Five-a-side football tournament with finals, awards, music, and a Majorette group parade. 7:30 PM: 🍽️ Food Stands Open: Enjoy penne all'arrabbiata, arista with arugula, cherry tomatoes and Grana, and french fries! 📅 Saturday, July 11 7:30 PM: 🍽️ Food Stands Open: Featuring moccolotti with goose, roasted goose, and more! 9:15 PM: 🎵 Evening with the 'Sei stagioni' band... playing Italian and international music. 📅 Sunday, July 12 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM - 7:00 PM: Holy Mass (at the Church of San Biagio). 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: 🍽️ Takeaway sales of goose sauce and roasted goose (for reservations, call Iole 339/4335588 or Sandra 347/3382760 or Gina 338/7478256). 4:30 PM: Threshing reenactment (at Porta di Mezzo), followed by the traditional Sfilata delle Canestrelle, concluding at the Church of San Biagio with a moment of Thanksgiving and ciambellina distribution. 7:30 PM: 🍽️ Food Stands Open: Featuring moccolotti with goose, roasted goose, and more! 9:15 PM: 🎵 Evening of music and entertainment with 'Diego e i suoi ragazzi'.