La Cavalcata

The Saint Joseph's Ride in Scicli

In our charming home town of Scicli, a place where tradition and festivity come together in a mesmerizing display of culture and faith, another amazing event just concluded. Among its most cherished events is indeed the Ride of Saint Joseph, translated “La Cavalcata di san Giuseppe”: a celebration that captivates locals and visitors alike with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

The Origins and Significance

The origins of the Cavalcata date back centuries, steeped in the rural customs of bygone eras. As March approaches, anticipation builds for this annual spectacle, which honors the journey of the Holy Family into Egypt. Alongside the “Festa del Gioia” and the “Madonna delle Milizie”, this event stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and devotion in Scicli. 
The Cavalcata reenacts the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt as narrated in the Gospel and takes place in March, both in Scicli and Donnalucata, with about a week in between. It can be described as a “flowered procession on horseback” through the streets of the town center: indeed, horses adorned with splendid floral trappings depicting the Holy Family and sacred symbols are paraded, ridden by costumed characters.

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The Festive Procession

At the heart of the festivities is the meticulous preparation that precedes the grand procession. Months in advance, skilled artisans and volunteers come together to craft intricate floral trappings, adorning majestic horses with symbols of the Holy Family. Known locally as “balicu,” these decorations pay homage to Saint Joseph, with the pansy flower serving as a poignant emblem of his patronage.

On the eve of the festival, the town square buzzes with excitement as horsemen don traditional peasant attire, a vivid tapestry of velvet trousers, embroidered shirts, and colorful sashes. Mounted on their resplendent steeds, they gather to embark on a symbolic journey towards the church of San Giuseppe.

As dusk descends, the procession sets off, winding its way through the cobbled streets of Scicli. Alongside the solemn echoes of hoofbeats, the air is alive with the fervent cries of “Patriarch, Patriarch!” A poignant reminder of the enduring bond between faith and community.

Amidst the spectacle, the reenactment of the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt takes center stage. Led by actors portraying Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus, the procession evokes the trials and tribulations of their historic journey. From humble beginnings to the warm embrace of hospitality, each step resonates with profound significance.

Rooted in the region’s rich agricultural heritage, the Ride of Saint Joseph holds deep cultural significance. Historically, farmers would seek the intercession of the Holy Patriarch for bountiful harvests, invoking blessings as they traversed the countryside. Today, echoes of this tradition resonate as the procession passes through the streets, accompanied by heartfelt prayers and joyful exclamations.

 

U Balicu

The evening

As twilight descends, the atmosphere is imbued with a sense of reverence and jubilation. Bonfires, known locally as “PAGGHIARA,” illuminate the path, casting a warm glow upon the route of the procession. Legend has it indeed that the escape of the Holy Family occurred by night, and to brighten the darkness, bonfires are ignited along the path, referred to as the “Saint Joseph’s bonfires.”

Here, the spirit of hospitality thrives as locals extend offerings of food and warmth to the weary travelers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and goodwill.

The procession, led and illuminated by the warm flicker of the fires, concludes with the recognition of the most exquisite adornments. Meanwhile, the towering heaps of glowing embers transform into grand barbecues, drawing together all attendees in a celebration brimming with a sense of community, tradition, belonging, and familial warmth.

The culmination of the evening unfolds amidst solemn Masses and the stirring procession of the Patriarch’s Statue. Horsemen, adorned with cascading bells, lead the way, their steeds bearing only the traditional “FILARI” around their necks. This symbolic gesture pays homage to the enduring legacy of Saint Joseph, a beacon of strength and guidance for generations past and present.

As the night draws to a close, the festivities reach a crescendo with a communal dinner and fireworks display. A feast for the senses, this cherished tradition sees locals come together to share in the spirit of generosity and compassion, auctioning off gifts for the less fortunate and reveling in the joy of community.

In the heart of Scicli, amidst the timeless beauty of its streets, the Ride of Saint Joseph serves as a poignant reminder of the bonds that unite us all.

More than a mere celebration, it is a testament to the enduring spirit of faith, fellowship, and tradition that continues to thrive in this enchanting corner of Sicily.

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