A Fera da Iazzana (Portella Gazzana Agricultural Fair)

A Fera da Iazzana: The fair that tells the story of the Nebrodi

Nestled among the pastures and forests of the Nebrodi Park, in the Portella Gazzana district (known in local dialect as Iazzana), one of the most deeply rooted events of the Longi municipality takes place. A Fera da Iazzana is an agricultural and livestock fair with centuries-old origins: for generations, it served as a vital crossroads for breeders, shepherds, and primary sector workers across the entire Nebrodi region.

A tradition brought back to life

Historically, the fair was held on three fixed dates—June 4th, July 14th, and September 4th—before being discontinued during the 20th century. In recent years, the municipal administration of Longi, led by Mayor Calogero Lazzara, has worked to revive the event, collaborating with regional authorities to secure the necessary support. The primary goal is to restore livestock trading to the heart of the festival, in a territory where many similar fairs have long since vanished.

What to expect at the fair

The event is much more than a market; it is an immersion into the rural identity of the Nebrodi. Experiences offered in recent editions include:

• Sunset hikes along ancient shepherd trails, led by local guides;
• Traditional craft demonstrations, such as the processing and production of fresh ricotta;
• Conferences dedicated to the future of livestock farming in the Nebrodi, featuring administrators and industry experts;
• Stalls showcasing local products, livestock, and traditional handicrafts;
• Live music and convivial gatherings, including camping under the stars.

Between Longi and the Nebrodi Park

Longi is a charming village in the Nebrodi mountains of Messina, surrounded by wild nature that provides the perfect backdrop for the fair. The event also involves neighboring towns—from San Marco d'Alunzio to Alcara Li Fusi and Galati Mamertino—creating a network of communities united by their shared agro-pastoral heritage. Visiting A Fera da Iazzana means discovering the most authentic side of inland Sicily, far from traditional tourist routes and close to the rhythm of the land and its livestock.