The festivity is based on the legend of the appearance of St. Blaise, who helped the people of Dubrovnik in defending their town against the Republic of Venice.

It is attended by many people, including residents of the city, surrounding areas, other parts of Croatia, and neighboring countries, tourists, and representatives of state and local authorities of the Roman Catholic Church.

According to legend, while on their way to the Levant in the year 972 the Venetians, anchored themselves near Gruž and Lokrum under the pretense of restocking food, while their real intention was to conquer Dubrovnik.

The Festivity starts on the day of Our Lady of Candelora, which is celebrated on February 2, with the releasing of white doves, which symbolize freedom and peace, in front of Dubrovnik Cathedral, and by raising Saint Blaise's banner on Orlando's column.

One of the attractions of the Festivity is a group of trombunjeri who carry short and broad rifles on their shoulders which had been used in the past to create noise and frighten away enemies of the City.

They fire their guns before entering the City, on present-day Brsalje Street, where, during the time of the Republic, shooting rifles and cannons was practiced.