Feast of San Nicola in Ribera

The feast of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of Ribera (AG), is celebrated every year on 6 December. The devotion to Saint Nicholas has deep roots in the Ribera community, dating back to 1644, when in a public act the notary Vincenzo Scoma of Caltabellotta named Saint Nicholas of Bari Patron Saint and Protector of the city of Ribera. Saint Nicholas of Bari was bishop of Myra in Lycia (today Demre, in Turkey), and is a very important figure of the Catholic Church as well as the inspiration for the character of Santa Claus, known in Italy as Santa Claus.
The days preceding the celebrations are characterized by a busy calendar of religious ceremonies. The days of celebrations are enriched by cultural events, demonstrations and various initiatives.
The celebrations culminate on December 6th, the day of the Ribera patronal festival: it begins in the morning with the firing of cannon bombs and the tour of the musical band. After the celebration of the Solemn Mass in the presence of the authorities, the ceremony of entrustment to Saint Nicholas takes place with the symbolic delivery of the keys to the city by the mayor. Bread is also traditionally distributed blessed of Saint Nicholas, as a sign of homage and devotion to the Saint. The “blessed breads” represent a distinctive symbol of veneration towards Saint Nicholas. In the afternoon, a suggestive procession of the launch of San Nicola takes place through the streets of the town. The procession ends with a solemn celebration in the Mother Church. The evening ends with colorful fireworks.

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