Feast of St James

From 24 to 26 July 2026, Maniago celebrates the traditional Feast of St James, three days that transform the town centre into a vast space dedicated to music, entertainment, sport, charity and fun for the whole family. Piazza Italia and the streets of the historic centre become the beating heart of the festival, with a packed programme of events that brings the town to life from the early hours of the morning until late in the evening, confirming the festival as one of the most eagerly awaited events of the summer in Maniago.

The opening ceremony, on Friday 24 July, offers a mix of culture, music and charitable initiatives. Among the most significant events are the opening of the contemporary art exhibition “Anacronismi – L’arte rompe il tempo” at Palazzo d’Attimis, the charity event PedaSLAndo – two hours of spinning, the proceeds of which will be donated to research and support for people with ALS – and the thrilling experience of “Maniago from a Hot-Air Balloon”, which will allow participants to admire the town from a unique perspective. The evening concludes with a live concert by the Straballo Band, kicking off a weekend of music and conviviality.

On Saturday 25 July, the programme is packed with shows and activities for young and old alike. The day kicks off with street acrobats and soap-bubble workshops, whilst the afternoon features the Circo Fungo, circus workshops, musical aperitifs with Luca Capizzi on the saxophone, and the intriguing Bollocicletta. In the evening, the centre of Maniago transforms into a huge stage with the Salewa Show, circus acts, aerial silks performances, the spectacular Fire Show and an engaging Reggaeton vs Commercial DJ Set that will keep the audience dancing until late into the night.

Sunday 26 July also offers a packed programme of events. The streets of the town centre will host the “Ruote al Lavoro” exhibition, dedicated to vintage cars, motorbikes, quads and bicycles, alongside workshops on balancing acts, slacklining and soap bubbles. In the afternoon, the Circo Fungo returns, featuring circus acts, musical aperitifs and acrobatic performances, whilst the evening culminates in a concert by Le Venusia, an all-female rock band, preceded by clowning, fire and performing arts shows.

Throughout the event, there’s no shortage of opportunities to experience the historic centre in a festive atmosphere. The food and wine stalls and the city’s many bars and restaurants offer culinary specialities and street food, whilst children and families can enjoy themselves with inflatables, bouncy castles, a football pitch, swan fishing and candyfloss. Rounding off the programme are the FLUS Games, featuring board games and games of skill, and a charming bonsai exhibition, which adds a touch of elegance and intrigue to the event.

The Festival of St James is one of the most important events in Maniago’s civic calendar, bringing together tradition, culture, entertainment and community spirit in a single grand celebration. Three days to enjoy amidst music, art, entertainment and local flavours, rediscovering the charm of the famous City of Cutlery and the warmth of its lively historic centre.