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Those lucky enough to be in Ischia the last days of July cannot miss the beautiful Feast of St. Anne, the most anticipated event for all islanders. The holiday falls every year on July 26 in Ischia Ponte, right in front of the Aragonese Castle, and its birth is due to the worship of women in childbirth who in the past went in procession with the effigy of St. Anne to a chapel in Cartaromana Bay.
Keeping the mothers-to-be company was a boat parade which were decorated with plants and flowers. In 1932 some local boys decided to make this tradition a custom to celebrate the patron saint of childbirths, and the processional boats over the decades became real floating scenery with themes dedicated to the history of Ischia.
The Feast of St. Anne begins at 9 p.m. with the parade of boats competing against each other near the Aragonese Castle. Each boat has 20 minutes to travel around the bay and perform in front of spectators seated on the rocks or piers and especially in front of a special jury that will choose the most beautiful boat.
The most anticipated moment of the evening is theburning of the Aragonese Castle, which will also conclude with a beautiful fireworks display. These two events commemorate the cannonade of the island by the British in the early 19th century.
If you want to enjoy this amazing evening from a unique perspective we suggest you purchase this incredible Boat excursion during the Feast of St. Anne departing from Forio. You will sail to Ischia Ponte and the northern part of the island, and during the crossing you will see the Soccorso Church, the Bay of San Montano and Lacco Ameno. Then you will arrive in Ischia Ponte near the Aragonese Castle to view the highlights of the Feast of St. Anne from the sea.
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The experiences to be had in Ischia before the Feast of St. Anne
Before you enjoy the charm and magic of St. Anne's Festival, there are plenty of activities and experiences to enjoy on the island during the day. For example, you can book a bus tour of the island of Ischia who will show you the most beautiful corners of the place. During the hike there will be stops to admire the scenery, and upon reaching St. Angel you will have an hour to visit the village and do some shopping.
Also not to be missed is the guided tour to the Craters of Ischia with return transfer, thanks to which you will learn about the island's volcanic craters. The walk starts from Cretaio locality and in the course of the walk you will see up close the craters and the fumaroles, evidence of Ischia's volcanic origin. After this plunge into the wilderness there will be room for a small aperitif of local appetizers.
Speaking of food, those who want to taste the best of Ischia's gastronomy can choose the Guided tour through the alleys of Ischia with tasting. This excursion will take you through the hidden streets of Forio, discovering places that have marked the history of the island and together with an experienced guide you will learn about its traditions. Then there will be time for a break, during which you will get to try the best local products.
Sea lovers, on the other hand, absolutely must spend a Snorkeling day in Ischia among its underwater wonders which allows you to dive in areas of rare beauty such as Punta Pizzaco, Sant'Angelo, Scoglio della Nave, Secca delle Formiche and many others. You will be able to observe sea caves, schools of fish, marine vegetation and remains of the ancient settlement of the Bay of Cartaromana. For this experience you have several options which also include a 2-hour tour of Ischia's sea caves, a 3-hour single dive, sea baptism, and an archaeo bio snorkeling excursion.
To relax then, you cannot miss a visit to one of the thermal parks of Ischia, renowned for the therapeutic properties of their waters. Specifically, we suggest a day of relaxation and wellness at the spa Poseidon, Negombo and Castiglione.
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