Borgo in Festa

The village that lights up in summer

Founded in 2023 through the initiative of local merchants and artisans in collaboration with the Pro Loco, Borgo in Festa has quickly become one of the most anticipated summer events in the Prenestini Mountains. For two evenings—one in mid-July and another in late August—the historic centre of San Vito Romano closes to traffic, becoming a pedestrian-only zone animated by food and wine stalls, markets, and live music, illuminated by lights that evoke the traditional village festivals of the past.

A trail of flavours along Via Borgo Mario Theodoli

The heart of the event is the long street that runs through the historic village, once linked to the Theodoli family, the town's long-time lords. Starting from Piazza Baccelli, stalls managed directly by local shops and producers offer regional specialties in a street food style: the ciambelle di San Biagio, a Slow Food Presidium and gastronomic symbol of San Vito, meats from local butchers—sausages, skewers, "tordi matti," and grilled pancetta—and bruschetta topped with local extra virgin olive oil, all accompanied by regional wines, craft beer, aperitifs, and cocktails.

Live music, shows, and crafts

Beyond the food, each evening features live concerts and DJ sets that keep the crowd entertained until late, alongside performances and artisan market stalls. Past editions have featured funk bands, DJs, magic shows, and even photography exhibitions set up in the alleys: entertainment designed for families, young people, and visitors alike, in the convivial spirit of a village festival.

A festival built by the community

Borgo in Festa is, first and foremost, a collective showcase: it is organised by the merchants and artisans of San Vito Romano together with the Pro Loco led by Paolo Gentilezza, with the support of the municipal administration under Mayor Maurizio Pasquali and the contribution of the Lazio Region. The stated goal is to promote local businesses and invite visitors to return beyond the festival dates to discover shops, restaurants, and landscapes in every season.

San Vito Romano, a balcony over the Prenestini Mountains

The municipality of San Vito Romano is located in the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, east of the capital, in a panoramic position on the Prenestini Mountains. The town preserves a compact historic centre, dominated by the Theodoli family palace, and a strong agricultural and artisanal identity that the festival brings to life: participating in Borgo in Festa is also an opportunity to discover one of the most characteristic villages in this corner of Lazio.