24 February
The Feast of Saint John Theristis in Bivongi is a religious celebration in honour of Saint John Theristis ("the reaper"), a 11th century Basilian monk, venerated as protector of the fields and crops.
The festival is concentrated at the ancient Basilian monastery of San Giovanni, where unique Byzantine liturgies are held in Calabria. During the celebrations, the faithful participate in processions and rites in which the statue of the Saint is carried, accompanied by songs and prayers, strengthening the link with the Greek-Orthodox roots of the community. The festival attracts pilgrims from different areas, and often there are added convivial moments with local products, making the event not only a celebration of faith, but also an occasion for meeting and sharing for the community of Bivongi.
