Festa della Madonna del Rosario in Gaeta 2026: Piazza Castello in Festa on October 4

The Festa della Madonna del Rosario in Gaeta takes place on Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 19:00, in Piazza Castello. It is the square celebration for the festivities tied to the Chiesa del Santissimo Rosario, in the medieval quarter of Gaeta, and this year features a simple title: «Piazza Castello in Festa».

The evening of October 4

The event begins at 19:00. During the evening, the prizes for the pesca di beneficenza (charity raffle) will be drawn, with proceeds going to the Associazione Italiana Ricerca contro il Cancro: those who join in will be celebrating while supporting cancer research.

The poster does not list any further details about the schedule. If guests, music, or food stands are announced, we will add them here. To give you an idea: last year, on October 5, 2025, the festival returned to Piazza Castello after a six-year break, with live music, dancing, and a food and wine itinerary hosted by local Gaeta businesses.

Who is behind the event

The event poster lists the Confraternita del SS. Rosario, the Arcidiocesi di Gaeta, the Basilica Cattedrale, the Città di Gaeta, the Pro Loco, Confcommercio Lazio Sud, and UCID. Official updates are shared on the Instagram profile @festadelrosariogaeta.

The church and the Confraternita

The Chiesa del Santissimo Rosario is located on Via Aragonese, in the heart of Gaeta Medievale. It takes its name from the Confraternita del Rosario, which relocated here in 1809 when the convent of San Domenico where it was based was suppressed, bringing along its Baroque altar and sacred furnishings. It is an intimate church and is not open every day: opening hours are on its dedicated page, and its history is in this in-depth guide.

Why the Rosario is celebrated in October

The liturgical feast of the Madonna del Rosario is celebrated on October 7, the anniversary of the 1571 Battle of Lepanto: the Christian fleet’s victory was attributed to the protection of the Virgin Mary invoked through the Rosary. In Gaeta, that battle left a visible legacy: the stendardo di Lepanto, the battle standard that flew on the papal flagship, is preserved in the Museo Diocesano.

How to get there

Piazza Castello is inside the medieval quarter and is accessible on foot. If you are arriving by car, park beforehand: here is the guide to parking and the ZTL.

What else is happening in Gaeta around those days

• Campionato Italiano delle Zone FIV — sailing regattas in the Gulf from October 1 to 4: the Sunday of the feast marks the final day.
• Gaeta Urban Trail — Sunday, October 11, a 12.5 km running race through historic stairways and alleys.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Festa della Madonna del Rosario 2026 in Gaeta?

Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 19:00, in Piazza Castello, in the medieval quarter of Gaeta.

What happens during the evening?

It is the square celebration for the feast of the Madonna del Rosario. During the evening, the prizes for the pesca di beneficenza (charity raffle) are drawn. Other program details, such as musical performances or special guests, have not yet been announced.

Who receives the proceeds of the charity raffle?

To the Associazione Italiana Ricerca contro il Cancro, as indicated on the official poster.

Why is the Madonna del Rosario celebrated in October?

The liturgical memorial of the Madonna del Rosario is on October 7, the anniversary of the 1571 Battle of Lepanto, whose victory was attributed to the Virgin Mary invoked through the Rosary.

Find the full monthly calendar in what to do in Gaeta in October 2026. Have a question? Message Enea on WhatsApp.