Ferragosto in Italy: A Celebration of Summer & TraditionDiscover how Italians mark August 15 with food, festivals, and family gatherings.
What is Ferragosto?Ferragosto is Italy’s midsummer holiday, blending ancient traditions with modern festivities. It’s both a day of rest and a national celebration.
Historical RootsThe holiday dates back to Emperor Augustus in 18 BCE, created as a festival after harvest to honor labor and fertility.
Later, the Catholic Church aligned Ferragosto with the Assumption of Mary, giving it a dual cultural and spiritual meaning.
On August 15, Italians traditionally leave cities behind, heading to beaches, mountains, or countryside retreats.
From grilled meats to pasta dishes and refreshing watermelon desserts, Ferragosto tables are full of seasonal Italian flavors.
Each region has unique ways to celebrate—horse races in Siena, folk music in southern towns, and fireworks across coastal villages.
At its heart, Ferragosto is about togetherness. Families picnic, share meals, and enjoy a rare nationwide pause.