The celebrations began in 2015 with the arrival in his birthplace of a large delegation of Chileans from Punta Arenas. There were subsequent pilgrimages of young people and adults from Rocchetta to places in Patagonia associated with Monsignor Fagnano. Last spring there were various cultural and educational events, including music and film.

The main day was 16 September. The town band welcomed guests and authorities, including several ambassadors, Bishop Francesco Ravinale of Asti, several mayors and priests as well as Salesians from the area.

After a brief visit to the house where Bishop Fagnano was born and a visit to the rich photographic exhibition staged in his honour, Bishop Ravinale celebrated a solemn Mass. This was followed by a concert. Later, at the "Salone Comunale Giacomo Bologna", Fr Francesco Motto from the Salesian Historical Institute, Rome, and Professor Nicola Bottiglieri from the University of Cassino, described the historical, cultural and ecclesial significance of the pioneering missionary work of Monsignor Fagnano. A century after his death he shines forth as a major star in the firmament of the Salesian Society, and as a figure of great importance in the history of Southern Patagonia and the lands of Magellan.

The evening concluded with the screening of the documentary film "South of the South" by Salvatore Metastasio, which tells the story of the Cross of Cape Froward built by Monsignor Fagnano.

The entire population joined enthusiastically in the celebrations in Rocchetta Tanaro. The Italian Post issued also a special stamp cancellation to mark the occasion. In addition, the website of the Salesian Historical Institute carried the letters of Monsignor Fagnano published by the Salesian Bulletin, with an extensive introduction and index.

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