The event calendar in Matera is centered on religious traditions, particularly the spectacular Festa della Madonna della Bruna on July 2, but the city has expanded its cultural programming significantly since being named European Capital of Culture in 2019. From jazz in cave churches to hot air balloons over the Gravina gorge, here are the major festivals and events in Matera throughout the year. Check the Matera weather by month guide for more detail.
Matera Events and Festivals in Summer
Festa della Madonna della Bruna (July 2)
The most important annual event in Matera celebrates the city’s patron saint. The day starts with a morning procession carrying a statue of the Madonna through the streets. In the afternoon, a large papier-mâché float (carro trionfale) is pulled through the city by teams of men. The climax comes around 8 PM when the float reaches Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The crowd rushes to tear it apart for souvenirs, believing the pieces bring good luck. The day ends with fireworks launched from the Castello Tramontano. The entire city participates; restaurants fill up weeks in advance. Book accommodation by March if you plan to attend. Check the best time to visit Matera guide for more detail.
Gezziamoci Jazz Festival (August, dates vary)
Running since 1987, this month-long jazz festival takes over the cave churches, piazzas, and open-air venues of Matera. Organized by the Onyx Jazz Club, it features Italian and international jazz artists performing against the backdrop of the Sassi. Concert venues include the cave church of Madonna delle Virtù and the open-air Cava del Sole quarry amphitheater. Tickets range from 10 to 25 EUR per concert; some daytime events are free. The full program is published in June at onyxjazzclub.it. Book tickets early for headliner shows, which sell out fast. Check things to do in Matera for more detail.
Matera Events and Festivals in Autumn
Matera Film Festival (Late September, 5 days)
Held annually since 2019, the Matera Film Festival screens Italian and international features, documentaries, and shorts in cave venues and the city’s cinema. The festival leverages the Hollywood connection of Matera. The city has been a filming location for The Passion of the Christ (2004), Wonder Woman (2017), and No Time to Die (2021). Single tickets cost 5 to 8 EUR; festival passes are 30 EUR. Screenings are in original language with Italian subtitles. Check materafilmfestival.it for the program, usually published in early September. Check Matera neighborhoods for more detail.
Matera Balloon Festival (Early October, 3 to 4 days)
Hot air balloons from across Italy and Europe launch from the Murgia plateau and float over the Sassi and Gravina gorge. The best viewing is from the Belvedere viewpoint in Parco della Murgia or from Piazza San Pietro Caveoso at dawn when balloons inflate. Tethered balloon rides are available for 15 to 20 EUR in the launch field near the town center. The event is weather-dependent. Launches may be cancelled in rain or strong wind. Check the official Facebook page “Matera Balloon Festival” for daily schedules during the event. Check the where to stay in Matera guide for more detail.
Matera Events and Festivals in Winter
Presepe Vivente, Living Nativity (Late December to early January, weekends)
The Sassi districts transform into a life-size nativity scene with over 200 costumed participants recreating biblical scenes throughout the cave alleys. The event runs on weekends from December 26 to January 6, usually 5 PM to 9 PM. The route starts at Sasso Caveoso and winds through candlelit paths to Sasso Barisano. Entry is typically 5 to 8 EUR. Dress warmly. Temperatures are around 4 to 10°C (39 to 50°F) in the evening. The atmospheric candle lighting in the ancient caves makes this one of the most striking nativity displays in Italy. Check Matera travel tips and FAQ for more detail.
Matera Events and Festivals in Spring
Easter Week Processions (March or April, dates vary)
The Easter observances in Matera include a Good Friday procession through the Sassi with a statue of the Dead Christ and a black-clad Virgin Mary, illuminated by torches. On Easter Sunday morning, a procession of the Risen Christ meets the Virgin Mary in Piazza San Pietro Caveoso. The events draw large local crowds but relatively few international tourists. Hotels book up about a month ahead for Easter weekend.
