Valentine’s Day

Traditions

February 14th is the feast of the patron saint of Vico, which is celebrated with a procession through the town, all adorned with oranges and lemons. Legend has it that by eating the Vico del Gargano oranges or drinking their juice you increase your chances of crowning your dream of love.
For the occasion the Chiesa Matrice, the alleys and the squares of the historic center, the private houses are decorated with local citrus fruits. The oranges are intertwined with petiole stalk, in a single cluster of oranges, which here they call “marròcche”; it then with another bunch, yet another, and yet another … up to frame and “make architectures” of oranges like the throne to the statue of their Patron Saint (in photo).
The symbol of this festival is the so-called “Vicolo del Bacio”, a very narrow and picturesque little street symbol of the “Country of Saint Valentine”, also festively decorated.
On the morning of February 14th at 11 am the solemn procession of Saint Valentine takes place, Patron of Vico del Gargano and Protector of the orange groves and lovers. At 3pm from the alleys of the ancient center up to Piazza Fuori porta “Sagra dell’Arancia and its derivatives”, display of typical products and tastings. During the Valentinian week 8/15 February there are usually other important cultural events crowning the feast of Saint Valentine, such as: National Review of Art “Premio San Valentino”, San Valentino Fair and choral and instrumental concerts.

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