Although I have never been to one, La Panarda is an ancient tradition in Abruzzo.
Basically a huge feast which can last all day and all night.
Legend has it that a young mother left her baby and went out to get food. When she came back the baby was in the mouth of a wolf.
She prayed to Saint Anthony of Abate and the wolf dropped the baby unharmed to the ground.
The young mother promised to provide a feast for Saint Anthony once a year and so the tradition was begun.
This tradition is still to be found in many villages in Abruzzo even today and Villavallelonga is perhaps one of the best known.
I plan to visit Abruzzo early 2007 so start preparing La Panarda I'm on my way!!:D
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