Last night proved me right! I love working local festivals into our Experience Sicily itineraries, because as a traveler, you gain a real sense of community from witnessing townspeople come together to celebrate.

Here in Ischia, where I am on vacation with my husband, last night we experienced the Festa di Sant’Anna. I loved watching Joe’s face when the live folk group played traditional tammuriatas (Neopolitan tarantella music), and more so, his awe at the spectacular fireworks and lazer show (pictured) over the Castello Aragonese for the finale. They really know how to do it in Italy!

Note the boats full of people in the marina, the crowd on the bridge… Thousands of people together enjoying an evening of entertainment and community. It felt wonderful to be part of the action.