Christmas Piccirill 2024 in Sirignano: markets, tradition and flavors of Irpinia

In the heart of Irpinia, in Sirignano, a very special celebration is celebrated every year: the Christmas Piccirill. An event that represents a preview of Christmas and, at the same time, a tribute to the popular and gastronomic traditions of this small village in the Avellino area. From 15 to 17 of November 2024, the historic center of Sirignano will come alive with the XV edition of Natale Piccirill, a festival that every year attracts hundreds of visitors, eager to live an authentic experience and immerse themselves in local traditions.

Organized by Pro Loco Sant'Andrea di Sirignano, the event has as its absolute protagonist the traditional food and local flavours. Among the streets of the town you will find Christmas markets, traditional dishes, folk dance shows and many moments of celebration. But the real peculiarity of Natale Piccirill is its history, a tradition that means that in Sirignano Christmas is celebrated twice.

Why do they celebrate Christmas twice in Sirignano?

Il Christmas Piccirill It is a tradition that began at the beginning of the last century. It is said that a priest, on the occasion of the preparation of the feast of Sant'Andrea, decided to give away packs of fresh anchovies to the poorest families in the village, so as to allow them to celebrate with joy. This gesture of solidarity was welcomed as a real early Christmas present, giving life to a tradition that has continued to this day: in addition to Christmas in December, Sirignano also celebrates Christmas Piccirill, a celebration that unites the community in a spirit of sharing and celebration.

What to expect at Natale Piccirill in Sirignano

During the three days of the event, the historic center of Sirignano will be transformed into a magical place, full of lights, sounds and flavors. Here's what you can find:

• Artisan markets: The Principessa Rosa and Barbati squares will host stalls with artisanal products, including Christmas decorations, wooden creations, hand-painted ceramics and much more. Each stand is an opportunity to discover the artisanal tradition of the area and purchase unique objects, also perfect as Christmas gifts.
  
• Typical traditional dishes: The real heart of the party is the gastronomy. You will be able to taste authentic dishes such as linguine with walnuts and anchovies, the polenta with beans, fried cod, and the traditional "raurinio" pizza (corn flour). There will also be the roasted chestnuts, the sweets, cooked wine and the inevitable caciocavallo hanged prepared on the grill. An explosion of flavors that tell the culinary history of Irpinia.

Entertainment and evening shows

Il Christmas Piccirill It's not just food and markets. Every evening the village will come alive with musical performances e popular dances that celebrate the Campania tradition. Don't miss the performances of tammurriate, tarantella, quadrilles and the suggestive ones Christmas carols around the bonfires. It will be an opportunity to relive ancient popular traditions and get involved in the energy and rhythm of the dances.

• Friday 15 NovemberThe evening will feature the Neapolitan Parking, a group of musicians who will liven up the square with traditional Neapolitan classics.
• Saturday November 16: Angelo and his Naples will bring the warmth and passion of Neapolitan music to the stage, for an evening full of emotions.
• Sunday November 17: The group Tarumbù Bottarda will close the event with an evening dedicated to the engaging rhythms of traditional music.

Practical information

• Date: from 15 to 17 of November 2024
• Opening hours:
• Friday: from 18: 00 to 23: 00
• Saturday and Sunday: from 10: 00 to 23: 00
• Entrance: free
• Location: Historic center of Sirignano, province of Avellino