Borgo San Martino Sausage Festival

The most anticipated end-of-summer festival in Cerveteri

The Borgo San Martino Sausage Festival is one of the most deeply rooted popular events in the Cerveteri area, in the Province of Rome. Every year in early September, the small hamlet of Borgo San Martino, just outside Cerveteri, transforms into a vibrant festival space that draws visitors from neighboring towns and from the capital itself. Now in its 45th edition in 2025, the festival traces its roots back to the early 1980s and is organized by the Borgo San Martino Cultural Association, with the patronage of the Cerveteri Municipal Department of Culture and the support of the Lazio Region.

The sausage, the absolute star

At the heart of the event is the sausage, prepared according to local tradition and famous for its quality throughout Lazio. The fragrant sandwiches served at the food stalls are the symbol of the festival, paired with wine, local products, and traditional rustic cuisine. Surrounding the culinary experience are artisan markets and a convivial atmosphere that brings different generations together.

Music, entertainment, and comedy

The evening program is rich and varied: ranging from ballroom orchestras and group dancing to comedy shows, dance performances, and parades. Over the years, the festival has hosted well-known Italian performers, bringing live music, cabaret, and entertainment for all ages to the stage of this small village, all with free admission.

Tradition and devotion

Alongside the gastronomic and festive aspects, the festival maintains a strong bond with religious tradition: on Sunday, following Holy Mass, the procession in honor of the Madonna winds through the village streets, accompanied by the local marching band. The day continues with tournaments, popular games, and activities for children, reflecting the deeply communal spirit of the event.

The grand finale with fireworks

Closing the three days of festivities is the traditional pyrotechnic display that lights up the sky over Borgo San Martino late in the evening, bidding farewell to the Cerveteri summer with an explosion of color. It is a spectacular finale that gathers thousands of people every year, sealing an event that perfectly blends taste, culture, and popular tradition in the heart of the Lazio Etruscan territory.