Every year hundreds of people from all over Australia make a pilgrimage to the Newton church. They make this journey to join the locals as they celebrate the Festa Di Madonna Di Montevergine which occurs on the last Sunday of September.
Held on the last Sunday of September the procession starts from the Hectorville church and ends a few miles later at the St. Francis of Assisi Church at Newton. Some of the locals like to refer to Newton as the ‘Piccola Assisi.’ It’s quite amazing to watch as hundreds take place in it walking respectfully and chanting the rosary as they walk.
After the procession reaches the church at Newton a Mass is held in a large marquis, as the Church itself is no longer able to hold the large numbers. Mass is usually said by a visiting Italian priest and many of the guests include political dignitaries usually take part.
After mass the festivities begin which include eating, drinking catching up with old friends and listening to the entertainment. As far as entertainment goes there is always somebody new. Last year they had Antonio Villano who was booked as ‘Tenore Straordinario’, or extraordinary tenor, and from memory he really wowed the audience. As far as the food is concerned, the pasta is just like mamma makes and the pizza is divine. There is also a variety of other Italian continental delicacies including cakes.
Then for the grand finale, what else but a great show of fireworks!
For several years I have been asked to record a video of the event and I have posted a portion of it here for those of you who are interested.
Tagged with: festa • Hectorville • Newton • St. Francis
Filed under: The Festa
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hello just inquiring about the festa of the maddonna
my mother who is 83 every year goes with the club
but this year my dad pass away 4 months ago and
she will not be going with the club
l was hoping that you can help me staying in a motel walking distance
from the church because my mum would love to come on this special day
and l will be travelling with her as l am her daughter we will be flying
up together could you possible give me a name of a hotel walking distance
as this would be a dream for my mum thankyou
Hi Filomena,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your father, our prayers are with you.
Regarding your stay during the Festa, we would love to have you over and someone is looking into this for you and will be contacting you shortly.
Hi, after reading Filomena’s email, it inspired to also write. I was doing some research into also taking my mum to the Festa. We live in Melbourne and my mother would love to go as she has never been before. My mother lost her husband over thirty years ago and dedicated herself to her children and I would love to surprise her. Could you also let me know a close hotel within walking distance.
warmest regards
Hi Sylvana, that would be a great surprise for your mother. I’ll email you my mobile number so that we can have a chat.
Hi,
I have a group of 38 attending this year. Do we need to book tickets?
Hi Daniella. It’s best to make bookings when numbers are involved. I’ve sent you an email with Don’s contact details so he can answer your questions.