Food FestivalJune
Sagra delle Fragole (Strawberry Festival)
location_onNemi, Roma e Dintorni
calendar_today
Date
June 7, 2027
map
payments
Admission
Free
family_restroom
Audience
Everyone
wb_sunny
Weather
Check weather
The Sagra delle Fragole of Nemi is one of Italy's most enchanting and enduring events, celebrated uninterruptedly since 1922 on the shores of Lazio's volcanic lake. Every first Sunday of June, this charming village transforms into an explosion of colours and fragrances, with wild strawberries as the undisputed stars of a celebration that blends tradition, legend, and genuine conviviality. Visitors can freely taste locally grown fruit immersed in a magical atmosphere of historical reenactments and folklore performances that transport you back in time. The festival's most captivating symbol is the parade of the 'Fragolare'—young women from the village dressed in traditional costumes: brilliant red skirts, black bodices, pristine white blouses, and the characteristic lace mandrucella adorning their hairstyles. According to local mythology, these red strawberries were born from tears shed by Venus mourning the death of young Adonis, transformed by divine power into hearts of sweetness. Ancient inhabitants even believed these fruits possessed protective powers against forest serpents. Nemi's strawberries are far more than simple fruit; they are noble ingredients of Lazio's cuisine: their vibrant colour and intense flavour shine through in refined jams, artisanal sweets, delicate pastries, the celebrated fragolino liqueur, and even exceptional craft beers. Harvesting occurs from May to October, and the festival ideally coincides with the start of this generous cycle, making the event a true tribute to nature's abundance.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Sagra delle Fragole of Nemi take place?expand_more
The Sagra delle Fragole is held on the first Sunday of June every year. In 2027 it is scheduled for June 7th. The event runs all day long, beginning with celebrations in the morning and culminating with the afternoon parade of the Fragolare and folkloric dances.
Is there an entrance fee for the festival?expand_more
Participation in the festival is free. Visitors can taste wild strawberries complimentary, while local strawberry-based products (jams, liqueurs, sweets) are available for purchase at stalls and shops throughout the village.
What are the Fragolare?expand_more
The Fragolare are young women from the village of Nemi who parade in traditional costume during the festival. They wear a distinctive outfit consisting of a red skirt, black bodice, white blouse, and a lace mandrucella on their head. The parade is the most evocative and anticipated moment of the entire event.
What are the typical strawberry products from Nemi?expand_more
Nemi's strawberries are transformed into numerous local products: superior quality jams, artisanal sweets and pastries, the celebrated fragolino liqueur (a sweet and fragrant digestif), and even craft beers. All these products reflect the excellence and intensity of flavour of Nemi's wild strawberries.
How do I reach Nemi?expand_more
Nemi is located in Lazio, in the Castelli Romani area, approximately 40 km south-east of Rome. It is easily accessible by car via provincial roads, or by bus from Rome's Termini station. The village perches on the shores of a picturesque volcanic lake.
info
This event is not yet managed on sagr.it. Information may not be up to date.