The Bonfire in Novoli, "Focara" is a renowned and traditional event held in Novoli, a town in the province of Lecce, Italy.

This year, some Erasmus students in Lecce, together with some of their Italian friends, attended the Fòcara and were left astounded by this magnificent event. The incredible fireworks display on the Fòcara mesmerized our students, and the entire evening was fantastic.

La Focara is an annual celebration featuring the construction and lighting of an enormous bonfire, and it typically takes place in late January, specifically on the night before the feast of Sant'Antonio Abate. The event has deep historical roots and cultural significance for the local community. The construction of the bonfire, known as "focara," is a meticulous process, involving the stacking of wooden pallets and other combustible materials into a massive structure. The culmination of the celebration is the lighting of this impressive bonfire, which serves as both a symbol of purification and a ritual to ward off the winter cold.

La Focara draws large crowds each year, attracting both locals and visitors who come to witness the spectacle. The event is not only about the bonfire but also includes various cultural and religious elements, such as processions, music, and traditional performances. While the specifics of Focara may vary from year to year, it remains a significant and time-honored tradition in Novoli, bringing the community together to celebrate its cultural heritage and share in the warmth of the bonfire during the winter festivities.

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