The popular culture of Procida is rich in elements that are part of everyday life: faith, food and wine, literature and music. Every event organised on this magical island manages to attract hundreds of people, tourists and residents alike, who actively participate, providing truly intense emotions. One of the most famous historical events is the Procession of the Mysteries, during Good Friday. From Thursday night, a long procession of hooded apostles makes pilgrimage along the main churches, while the sound of a trumpet awakens the citizens at dawn, calling them to gather to celebrate the death of Christ. At 07:00, a large procession of figures, including many children dressed up as angels, departs from the village of Terra Murata with the evocative parade of the ‘Misteri’, iconoclastic handcrafted representations made of poor materials such as wood, das, papier-mâché and clay. Another important festival linked to traditions is the Sagra del Mare, usually held in the last week of July, during which the Graziella, the Procidan girl who best represents the character from Alphonse de Lamartine’s novel, is proclaimed. Throughout the event, there are concerts, tastings of typical products and side events such as sports competitions and variety shows.
On St Martin’s Day, 11 November, on the island of Arturo, the ‘ProcidaE’ Association organises the annual ‘Wine Festival‘, a true hymn to the fertility of Procida’s vines. There will be many gastronomic establishments offering local delicacies such as fried anchovies and pasta with tasty rabbit sauce, with the help of the kindly ‘Grancie’ – girls dressed in period clothing. The following morning, interesting guided tours of the ancient vineyards are scheduled, followed by the scenic ‘Regata del Vino‘, organised in every detail by the Procida Naval League. In addition, on the final day of the 13th, there will be a special tour of the old prison, which will be shown in all its austerity for this occasion. For cinephiles, on the other hand, we recommend attending the Procida Film Festival, a cultural event dedicated to the big screen. During the two days at the end of June, dozens of works by filmmakers from all over the world will be screened: from Argentina to Afghanistan, from Brazil to Russia, passing through Italy and Spain. A unique opportunity to meet talented emerging artists who will present documentaries, short films and music videos.
Along with cinema and popular festivals, there is also room for good music. Since 2010, the indefatigable Artistika Association has been organising the Corricella In Jazz Festival, a series of concerts held in the Piazzetta Massimo Troisi, the centrepiece of the colourful village of Marina di Corricella, between the months of July and August. A great success with critics and the public alike, the musical kermis has hosted notable guests such as Daniele Sepe, Flo, Andrea Rea Trio and the Almamegretta.