I Focaroni di San Giuseppe is a historic celebration that honors the patron saint of carpenters. This tradition, which blends elements of Christian devotion with pre-Christian rites, involves lighting large bonfires, known as focaroni, in the city’s neighborhoods. These symbolic fires mark the farewell to winter and the welcoming of spring. With their warmth and light, they represent a propitiatory rite for a good harvest and a season of rebirth and prosperity. The celebration begins in the afternoon, when representatives of the city’s children from the four districts carry a lit torch that symbolizes the lighting of the bonfires.

It’s a great occasion for a trip to Gubbio—the atmosphere created by the Focaroni is truly spectacular!