Events in Le Marche
Events Le Marche
There’s always something happening in Le Marche. Throughout the year – but especially during the summer months – villages and towns across the region host a wide variety of events, from small village festivals to grand historical parades. These celebrations, known as Feste and Sagre, are an essential part of Italian culture.
Most of them revolve around food and togetherness. Town squares fill with stalls selling prodotti tipici (local products), long tables are set up, live music fills the air, and the atmosphere is always warm and festive. Take a seat among the locals and savour real Italian traditions.
Highlights of the festival season
Spring: Il Cavallo del Fuoco – Ripatransone
In spring, the hilltop town of Ripatransone hosts one of the most spectacular events in the region: Il Cavallo del Fuoco (The Fire Horse). On the first Sunday after Easter, the Madonna di San Giovanni is honoured with a dazzling fireworks display that dates back to the 17th century. A horse, covered in fireworks, is lit during a procession through the town – an unforgettable experience! Just be sure to wear old clothes… sparks might fly.
Summer: The sagra season
From June to late October, villages across Le Marche come alive with Sagre – traditional food festivals with local wine, music, and a lively atmosphere. From mid-July to mid-August, there’s something happening every weekend.
- St. Elpidio a Mare – La Città Medioevo
During the third weekend of July, the entire town transforms into a medieval setting: La Città Medioevo. Expect knights on horseback, falconers, street theatre, and authentic medieval dishes – a magical event for all ages.
- Campofilone – Sagra dei Maccheroncini
In the second week of August, the small town of Campofilone celebrates its most famous dish: Maccheroncini, a delicate local pasta. People from all over Italy gather to enjoy freshly made pasta at long communal tables. A delicious tradition you won’t want to miss!
During Feste and Sagre, village squares turn into lively open-air restaurants with long tables where you can enjoy local food traditions alongside the Italians.
Photo: Viva la Casa
Each spring in the small town of Ripatransone, the spectacular Il Cavallo del Fuoco takes place – a horse covered in fireworks is ignited during a lively procession.
Photo: Viva la Casa
In July, St. Elpidio al Mare transforms for three days into La Città Medioevo – a medieval town where you can step back in time.
Photo: Proloco St. Elpidio al Mare.
Every August, Campofilone celebrates the Sagra dei Maccheroncini di Campofilone – a festival dedicated to the famous fine spaghetti that originated in this small village.
Photo: Proloco Campofilone
More unique events in Le Marche
- Fermo – Palio dell’Assunta
In early August, the hilltop city of Fermo hosts the spectacular Palio dell’Assunta. Ten districts of the city compete in a thrilling horse race through the narrow streets of the historic centre. A must-see medieval spectacle!
- Castignano – Templaria Festival
Another highlight in August is the Templaria Festival in Castignano. Since 1990, the historic village has transformed into a medieval world inspired by the Knights Templar. For five nights, the streets come alive with street theatre, music, fire shows, dancing, historical reenactments and exhibitions. In old taverns, caves and squares, you can enjoy medieval-style menus. A magical, atmospheric experience that transports you back in time.
- Ortezzano – Festa del Vino
On the first weekend of September, the charming village of Ortezzano celebrates the start of the grape harvest with the Festa del Vino. A culinary wine trail leads you through the village streets and squares, with delicious food and wine at every stop – from aperitivo with antipasti to vino cotto with dessert. Lively music, dancing, and street performances complete the festive atmosphere.
- Smirillo – Castagnata di Smirillo
The sagra season ends in October with the Castagnata, a chestnut festival. The Castagnata di Smirillo is the oldest and most famous in the region. The entire village celebrates the chestnut in all its forms, prepared according to traditional recipes – hearty and delicious.
Tip: Want to join one of these local festivals during your stay in Le Marche? Keep an eye on roadside posters or check flyers in restaurants and cafés – they often announce events.
During the spectacular Palio dell’Assunta, ten districts of Fermo compete in a thrilling horse race through the city’s narrow streets.
Photo: E. Zeppilli.
The Templaria Festival in Castignano is a medieval Templar celebration featuring street theatre, music, fire shows, historical scenes, dance, exhibitions, and medieval food.
Photo: Templaria Festival.
At the Festa del Vino in Ortezzano, the start of the grape harvest is celebrated with a charming food and wine trail through the village’s streets and squares.
Photo: Festa del Vino.
The Castagnata di Smirillo is the oldest and most well-known in the region. The entire village celebrates the chestnut, prepared in various traditional ways.
Photo: Viva la Casa