Lake of Pacengo Festival Honors Tradition, Blesses Waters with Laurel Wreath

The twenty-seventh Lake Festival at the Port of Pacengo. As always, the promoters are the sailors of the Leonello Parolini group from Lazise, led by the tireless Giovanni Olivetti. This is a deeply felt ceremony by the sailors and the people of Pacengo because it encompasses folk and religious traditions. The rite dates back to ancient times, meant to remember the good and evil of the lake. In fact, it has historically brought, and still does, wealth to those who go fishing on the lake.

However, the lake, just as it is generous, is equally dangerous due to its own nature, derived from glacial origins and therefore uncontrollable and unpredictable. This explains the tradition of blessing the lake and placing a laurel wreath in the waters of the port. A propitiatory sign for those living along its shores, wishing for a plentiful catch and to ensure the lake remains peaceful and not rebellious.

The Meaning of the Laurel Wreath

The laurel wreath as a lasting memorial for those who lost their lives in its waters during both peace and war. Here is tomorrow’s schedule: 9:45 a.m., gathering at Piazza Alberti, at the monument to the fallen. Raising the flag accompanied by the Peschiera band.

At 10:30 a.m., mass at the port celebrated by Pacengo’s parish priest, Don Sergio Fratucello. Followed by the recitation of the sailor’s prayer and departure by boat. On the boat, propelled by oarsmen, will also be the parish priest, who, upon reaching the open water, will bless the lake and, together with the sailors, will immerse the large laurel wreath.

At 12:45 p.m., the sailors will enjoy a communal meal at a well-known local restaurant. ()