Anchovy Festival

The Anchovy Festival in Valverde

The Anchovy Festival is one of the most beloved gastronomic events of the summer in the Municipality of Valverde, a small village in the Catania area set on the slopes of Mount Etna, in the province of Catania, Sicily. Dedicated to the anchovy, the bluefish that has always been the town's culinary symbol, the festival enlivens the setting of Piazza del Santuario, the historic and religious heart of the community, for several days.

A tradition born in 1986

The event has its roots in 1986 and takes place in the very space where, historically, the anchovies caught along the Ionian coast were sold. From that popular custom, a true village festival was born, now reaching over thirty editions, which brings together the memory of ancient maritime activities with tourism and cultural entertainment.

What to eat

The absolute star of the table is, of course, the anchovy, prepared in many ways according to Sicilian cuisine: fried, marinated, or salted, accompanied by warm bread, typical local products, and traditional island specialties. Numerous food stalls and artisan stands line the streets of the center, inviting visitors to taste and discover the flavors of the Etna hinterland.

• Tastings of anchovy-based dishes curated by industry experts
• Live cooking demonstrations with chefs and catering professionals
• Stalls featuring typical Sicilian, local, and artisanal products
• Evening entertainment, live music, and folk performances

Music, folklore, and atmosphere

The Anchovy Festival is not just about food: every evening features concerts, DJ sets, folk songs, and traditional Sicilian dances, as well as activities designed for all ages. The square fills with families, curious visitors, and guests from neighboring towns in a festive atmosphere that recalls the great summer celebrations of the Catania area, often linked to the calendar of the Madonna di Valverde feast, celebrated in late August.

A free event to experience in the square

The festival offers free admission and typically takes place in the evening, when the heat of the day gives way to the breeze from Mount Etna. It is the ideal opportunity to discover Valverde, its Marian Sanctuary, and one of the most authentic gastronomic traditions in the province of Catania, in a successful blend of taste, sea, and culture.