Blessing of the Sea and Ferragosto in Cesenatico

A seafaring tradition in the heart of the Romagna Riviera

In Cesenatico, on the coast of the province of Forlì-Cesena in Emilia-Romagna, August 15th is not just Ferragosto: it is the day of the Blessing of the Sea, the most iconic rite of the fishing community that for centuries has marked the solemnity of the Assumption. The celebration unfolds along the famous Canal Port of Leonardo, designed according to Leonardo da Vinci's studies, the historical and emotional heart of the city.

The rite of the Blessing of the Sea

The day opens with the Solemn Mass in Piazza Ciceruacchio at 8 AM. Immediately after, the statue of the Madonna del Rosario—usually housed in the parish church of San Giacomo Apostolo, at the beginning of the eastern canal port—is carried in procession by sailors and fishermen and loaded onto the fishing boat Sirio. The boat leaves the port for the blessing of the waters, while a wreath of flowers is cast into the sea in memory of those who lost their lives in the waves. Upon return, the procession on foot crosses the city streets to the church of San Giacomo, where a second Mass is celebrated at 11 AM.

Cesenatico's Ferragosto

Around the religious moment, the Municipality of Cesenatico organizes a true village festival that attracts residents and tourists from the Riviera. Already on the evening of August 14th, the Rustida returns, the great barbecue of fresh fish cooked on the Canal Port by fishermen from the Casa del Pescatore cooperative. On the evening of the 15th, the city fills with music: from the Balamondo World Music Festival in Piazza Romagna Mia, dedicated to traditional Romagna sounds, to the major concerts at the Stadio Comunale Marino Moretti, which hosts the highlights of the summer festival Ribalta Marea during Ferragosto.

Why it's worth being there

• An authentic and moving rite, far from superficial tourist festivals.
• The unique setting of the Canal Port of Leonardo and its historic fishing boats of the Marineria.
• A day that combines the sacred and the profane: faith, seafood gastronomy, and live music.
• The opportunity to experience the Romagna Riviera in its most genuine expression.

The Blessing of the Sea is organized by the Parish of San Giacomo Apostolo with the patronage of the Municipality of Cesenatico; the surrounding events are part of the city's summer program.