Aestas

Aestas, the summer that lights up the village

Aestas is the major summer festival in Collalto Sabino, a small town in the province of Rieti nestled in the mountains of the Sabina region, in northeastern Lazio. Dominated by its famous castle, the village transforms into an open-air stage throughout the month of August: the Pro Loco Collalto Sabino, with the support of the Municipality, the Lazio Region, and the UNPLI, curates a rich and varied calendar every year that alternates between entertainment, culture, and conviviality.

A multidisciplinary program

The beauty of Aestas lies in its variety: in just a few weeks, the program shifts from live music to theater, from cinema under the stars to book presentations, and from comedy nights to cultural meetings. Every event is designed to fill the squares of the historic center and offer people of all ages a reason to head out on summer evenings.

• Gastronomic evenings with live music, the convivial heart of the festival, dedicated to the dishes and typical products of the Sabina region;
• Concerts and musical performances in the village squares;
• Theater and open-air cinema, with free evening screenings;
• Book presentations and meetings with authors and guests;
• Comedy nights and family-friendly events.

Flavors of Sabina

Gastronomy is an integral part of Aestas. The themed evenings, set up in the town center, are the perfect opportunity to taste local specialties accompanied by live music: a simple and authentic way to showcase Sabina cuisine and strengthen the bond between the community and its territory. Extra virgin olive oil, fresh garden produce, and traditional recipes take center stage alongside fine wine.

A village to discover

Collalto Sabino is counted among the most picturesque villages in Lazio: its narrow streets, ancient walls, and the castle overlooking the valley provide the ideal backdrop for a festival that also serves as an invitation to explore the town. Participating in Aestas means experiencing the intimate and genuine atmosphere of a small Sabina center, far from the frenzy of large-scale events, where culture can be felt while strolling through ancient stone alleys.

A community tradition

For several years, Aestas has represented the quintessential summer event for Collalto Sabino, the result of the voluntary work of the Pro Loco and the involvement of the entire community. The festival is free to attend and confirms, edition after edition, the village's dedication to hospitality and the promotion of its own cultural identity.