The Italian Ferragosto

August 15^th, the feast of the Assumption of Mary, tends to be a festivity across most European countries. But in Italy it’s a lot more than that. For Italians, August 15^th marks the start of what is known as the Ferragosto, a celebration with years of tradition that combines the best of all summer festivities: music, food, outdoor activities, fireworks and much, much more.

On the night of the 14th you’ll find bonfires on most beaches, groups of friends singing and waiting for the clock to strike midnight to go for a dip in the sea, fireworks that reflect on the surface of the water… and so, it’s inevitable to stay up until well into the am hours. The following day, Italian families share a big meal together, full of the traditional specialties of their local cuisine. One of the most typical recipes with a very long tradition in the area of Tuscany is roasted pigeon, and in the area of the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano they prepare aniseed flavored sweets known as ciambelle.

In fact, each city across bella Italia preserves its own traditions and events… so let’s explore some of them together!

Milan

Milan offers countless options when it comes to celebrating the Ferragosto. Starting with the night of the 14th, on the eve of the day, it’s customary to head to Sempione Park, where various types of events are usually held, and then on to Piazza Cannone, where many of the museums open their doors all night so we can admire their treasures. From the Archeological Museum to the Gallery of Modern Art, including museums of the likes of Castello Sforzesco, Palazzo Arengario, Palazzo Reale and the Triennale, with its gardens and fairs… These are some of the options for a peaceful, quiet night of culture and relaxation. If more vibrant fun is what you’re after we head down to Latinoamericando Expo… And what is it? Oh, just Europe’s largest fair of its kind: a world upon itself of salsa and merengue dancing to truly feel and experience the taste of Latin America!

Then spend the next day lunching together with friends or family… Where to go? Milan has restaurants for all tastes and pockets- just let your stomach guide you into finding the right one for you.

Gallipoli

And now off to southern Italy… let’s go to Salento! This is the place for more traditional Ferragosto celebrations, including activities like hanging out at the beach with friends, lighting bonfires, fireworks, and midnight swims in the sea. And because this is Gallipoli, we know that partying and good times are guaranteed. Why not start off with a happy hour drink at the beach in the area of Baia Verde, a favorite with the local youth.

Siena

And up towards Tuscany next… we are going to Siena! Head up to this stunning medieval town to have a one of a kind Ferragosto with open air concerts and much more. Food could obviously never be lacking, so we’ll get a taste of the local cuisine on this night filled with music and good vibes. And all that to the backdrop of Siena’s gorgeous piazzas; though you’ll also love exploring the historical legacy of its cobblestoned streets. The celebrations continue on the 15th with the traditional Ferragosto lunch, and then it’s time to get ready for il Palio di Siena, which starts on August 16^th.

It’s clear that there’s plenty to choose from to make the most of Ferragosto across all regions of Italy. Art, culture, relaxation, cuisine… just choose your favorite destination and partake in this Italian festivity. So where would you go? Have you already had a look at our apartments in Italy?