66th Fano Sea Festival
The Adriatic Sea and its people – past, present and future
From July 31 to August 3 – Fano celebrates its bond with the sea
One of the most beloved summer events returns to Fano: the Festa del Mare, now in its 66th edition. Four days of concerts, sea performances, children’s activities, guided tours, exhibitions, local cuisine, and commemorative ceremonies. A unique opportunity to celebrate maritime culture and the deep connection between the city and its seafaring heritage.
The Festa del Mare (Sea Festival) is deeply rooted in Fano’s identity and honors its long-standing relationship with the sea, celebrating its fishing traditions, port life, and the people who have shaped this maritime community over the years.
What awaits you?
The Festa del Mare is a journey through local flavors, music, and tradition. Enjoy communal dinners along the seafront, live music every evening, guided tours and exhibitions exploring Fano’s maritime past, and hands-on activities and workshops for children inspired by the sea.
Sunday, August 3 will feature one of the festival’s most emotional moments: a memorial ceremony honoring lost sailors, followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the Molo dell’Arzilla.
Local products, seafood tradition, and freshly caught fish:
In the harbor area, the Festa del Mare also becomes a tasting experience of the most authentic dishes from Fano’s coastal cuisine. The area called “Dal peschereccio alla tavola” (“From the fishing boat to the table”) hosts food stands where you can enjoy traditional recipes prepared by local fishermen.
Highlights include:
- Spaghetti with clams (Spaghetti alle vongole)
- Clams Fano-style (Vongole alla pureta, prepared according to an ancient local recipe)
- Mixed grilled fish (Rustita di pesce alla griglia)
- Grilled fresh sardines (Sardoncini scottadito – tender and fragrant, just off the grill)
A full-flavor experience with the scent of the sea all around you.
A bit of history: the meaning of the Sea Festival in Fano
The Festa del Mare originated from Fano’s deep bond with the sea. Initially conceived as a commemoration of fallen sailors, it has since evolved into a large-scale event that celebrates the identity of the city and the work of fishermen, port workers, and all those involved in maritime life.
Key traditions and symbolic moments include:
- Religious ceremony and boat procession
A mass is celebrated in honor of missing sailors, followed by a solemn sea procession with boats – a heartfelt ritual that pays tribute to those lost at sea and calls for protection for those who still work upon it.
- Fireworks show
A breathtaking fireworks display marks the closing of the festival, lighting up the sky and the waters of Fano with a spectacular burst of color.
- “52° Nutata Longa”
Sunday, August 3 at 8:30 AM – at the free beach near Largo Rastatt. Memorial “Felice Ricci”, part of the regional long- and middle-distance swimming championships.
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