Sagra dell’olivo di Canino

The Sagra dell'olivo di Canino is an institution in Italy's food and wine festival landscape, holding the distinction of being the country's oldest olive oil festival, with traditions dating back to 1939. The event's roots run even deeper, tracing back to olive cultivation in the Canino territory since Etruscan times, when the Lazio region was already renowned for the quality of its fruit. Today, Canino olive oil continues to represent Italian agricultural excellence, certified with DOP status since 1996 and carefully preserved by local families who maintain age-old cultivation traditions. The festival takes place around December 8th, the crucial moment when olive harvesting reaches its peak and new oil expresses all its freshness and character. The celebration transforms Canino's historic center into a vibrant stage where history, culture, and gastronomy converge: from the celebrated bruschetta topped with exclusive new olive oil distributed in the main square, to historical reenactments that honor the territory's past. Alongside culinary delights, the Sagra features a rich calendar of cultural events, costumed processions, games, and tournaments engaging visitors and residents alike. The artisan market sprawling through the entire historic center offers the chance to discover local products and traditional craftsmanship, making this festival an immersive experience in the flavors and culture of ancient Lazio.