BariExperience.com | When is Saint Nicholas celebrated in Bari? Here's the program for the Saint Nicholas celebrations on May 7-9 in Bari. The celebration of the patron saint of Bari and its people includes a historical parade, caravel, and tricolor arrows.

The program for the three most anticipated days of the year for the people of Bari: the feast of Saint Nicholas returns on May 7th, 8th, and 9th

Like every year on 7, 8 and 9 May the city comes alive with an extraordinary celebration in honour of Saint Nicholas , the patron saint of the city.

The Feast of Saint Nicholas is a unique event distinguished by its vibrant and engaging atmosphere. Although the main religious festival takes place on December 6th , with numerous faithful, pilgrims, and visitors flocking to the Basilica of Saint Nicholas for religious ceremonies and to witness the evocative historical procession, it is on May 7th, 8th, and 9th that the entire city transforms into a great stage of celebration and tradition.

During these days, Bari dresses up for the holidays with cultural, musical, and folkloric events that enliven the streets and squares, offering a unique and engaging experience for all who attend. The atmosphere is charged with emotion and pride in its identity and tradition, while the streets come alive with historical parades, local cuisine, and countless Bari residents (and, for some time now, tourists, too).

No matter where you're from, San Nicola will welcome you with open arms during these unforgettable days in Bari, giving you an experience that will remain etched in your memories forever.

Curious to discover the program of events and celebrations that characterize this holiday? Let's discover together the main events of the feast of Saint Nicholas.

May 7: Boarding of the painting and historical procession

6.00 pm
After the procession and Holy Mass, the painting of the Saint will be taken to Baia San Giorgio.

8.30 pm
Departure of the Historical Procession from the Norman-Swabian Castle (Old Bari).

10.00 pm
The procession will pass through Corso Vittorio Emanuele and arrive at the Basilica of San Nicola.

May 8: Statue boarding and fireworks

5.00am
Holy Mass in the Basilica of San Nicola

10.00am
Boarding of the Saint from the San Nicola Pier

4.00pm
If scheduled, National Acrobatic Patrol on the Bari seafront (Frecce Tricolori)
Performance present every two years

8.00pm
Disembarkation of the statue from the San Nicola Pier and procession to Piazza del Ferrarese

10.00pm
Fireworks display from the Sant'Antonio Pier in honor of San Nicola

May 9: The relics and the celebration of the people of Bari

6:00 PM
Holy Mass in the Basilica of San Nicola and collection of the holy manna

10:00 PM
Fireworks display from Molo Sant'Antonio for the celebration of the people of Bari