Rome is preparing to celebrate one of its most enchanting traditions. On Tuesday 5 August, from 8.00 pm, Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore will be transformed into a magnificent open-air stage beneath the stars, where lights, music, poetry and a spectacular artificial snowfall come together for a much-loved annual event that has captivated thousands of Romans and visitors for decades.
In front of the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the largest church in the world dedicated to the Mother of Jesus, everything is ready for the 43rd edition of the Feast of Our Lady of the Snows, an event that each year commemorates a story which, according to tradition, dates back more than 1,600 years.
Since 1983, this remarkable tale has been brought to life thanks to the vision of architect Cesare Esposito from Monti. Delicate snowflakes, theatrical effects, stunning light displays and an evocative musical soundtrack create a truly magical atmosphere, transforming the heart of the Eternal City into a place suspended between history, faith and wonder.
The evening's programme will feature the Fanfare Band of the Carabinieri Cadets Legion, conducted by Maestro Danilo Di Silvestro, together with an elegant opera concert performed by Sara Pastore, Caterina Novak, Rino Scaturro, Cristian Caselli, Giuseppe Milli, accompanied by pianist Francesco Del Fra. Audiences are also eagerly awaiting a performance by internationally acclaimed pianist James Raphael and an appearance by Ilaria Salvati, the Angel of Peace.
The event, conceived and organised by Cesare Esposito alongside journalist Feliciana Di Spirito, brings together many leading figures from Italy's cultural and artistic world. Among those taking part are historian and poet Francesco Gui, journalist and President of Italia dei Diritti, Antonello De Pierro, TeleCapri correspondent Nello De Martino, and actor and director Lorenzo Flaherty. Poetry will play a central role, with readings by Gabriella Lavorgna, Alessandra Maltoni, Petronilla Pullara, and Maurizio Pochesci, who will present a specially curated poetry recital.
The evening will conclude with the traditional Ceremonial Toast, accompanied by the Hymn of Peace, performed by the adult and children's choir of the Artisti Pedagogisti, within a stage design created by architect Renato Maria Nisticò.
The 2026 edition of the celebration is dedicated to Pope Leo XIV, to the hope for peace throughout the world, and to the memory of Pope Francis.
The Story Behind the Miracle of the Snow
According to tradition, on 5 August AD 358, Rome awoke beneath an unexpected blanket of snow. This extraordinary event has been passed down through the centuries and became known as the "Miracle of the Snow".
Legend tells that, during the night of 5 August AD 358, the Virgin Mary appeared in a dream to Pope Liberius and to the Roman nobleman John, asking them to build a church on the site she would reveal. When they awoke, they found Esquiline Hill covered in snow despite the height of summer. It was on that very spot that the Basilica of Saint Mary Major was built in honour of the Virgin Mary.
Every year on 5 August, this remarkable anniversary is celebrated with Romans and visitors from around the world who gather to witness one of the city's most distinctive and evocative traditions.
The programme may be subject to change
Informations
Mercoledì 5 agosto 2026
Ore 21.00
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