Location: Modena, Italy Dates: January 31st (annually) Why You Should Go: The historical city center of Modena lights up every year with a one of a kind celebration in honor of their patron saint, Saint Geminiano. Modena’s main cathedral is adorned with relics featuring the saint, while the rest of the city is transformed into a sea of stands showcasing local vendors and their wares. The day kicks off with a traditional procession comprised of citizens outfitted in historical yellow and blue costumes and bearing offerings to their patron saint. Starting at City Hall, the procession weaves its way through the city before reaching the main cathedral where the pageantry culminates as lamps and candles are lit in front of the saint’s sepulcher in the crypt of the cathedral. The city’s festivities are rooted in the mysterious legend surrounding how Saint Geminiano was able to save his people from grave peril in the 400’s.  Born in a town 6 kilometers outside of Modena, Saint Geminiano began his religious life as a deacon before earning the role of bishop. He is considered by Modena’s residents to be the father of Christianity in the province, as he began preaching during a period when paganism was the overwhelming belief system. Legend states that in the 5th century, as the barbarian invasions of Italy had begun, Saint Geminiano saved Modena from Attila the Hun and his advancing troops by hiding the city under a thick blanket of fog. Saint Geminiano has thus remained closely tied to the local folklore and traditions of the city, and is lovingly honored  every year by the Modenese through their unique festival.