Feast of Sant'Antonio 2025 in Portico di Caserta: floats, rhythms and traditions

From 24 to January 26 2025, Portico di Caserta is preparing to celebrate the traditional Feast of Saint Anthony Abbot, known as “Floats, Rhythms and Pastellessa”. An event that combines music, tradition and gastronomy, transforming the town into a centre of lively popular celebrations. The event, organised by the Municipality of Portico di Caserta in collaboration with the association “Traditions, Songs and Sounds in Sant'Antuono”, represents one of the most heartfelt patronal festivals in the region.
The tradition of the “Carri di Sant'Antuono”
The beating heart of the festival is the “Battles of Pastellessa” parade, the famous carts of Sant'Antonio that pass through the streets of the town. On these carts, the Bottari, traditional percussionists, create a unique sound experience using instruments made of barrels, vats and sickles. The sounds evoke the ancient musical tradition of the area, creating engaging rhythms that unite past and present.
The “Pastellessa” is also the name of the typical dish of the festival: a combination of pasta and boiled chestnuts, prepared and shared as a symbol of conviviality and celebration.

A program full of events
The festival is not limited to music and gastronomy. During the three days, the town will be animated by:
- Traditional games: an opportunity to rediscover and pass on ancient recreational activities.
- Performances and fireworks displays: which will light up the sky of Portico di Caserta, making the atmosphere even more magical.
- Auction of collected products: a tradition that involves the faithful and celebrates the generosity of the local community.
- food stands: where it will be possible to taste Pastellessa and other local specialities.
- Where: Portico di Caserta
- When: from Friday 24 January 2025 to Sunday 26 January 2025