Ercolano Fish Festival

A seaside festival at the foot of the Ercolano Excavations

The Ercolano Fish Festival is one of the most anticipated late-summer culinary events in the town of Ercolano, in the province of Naples, the heart of the Vesuvius region. Every year, between late August and early September, the Archaeological Excavations parking lot along Via dei Papiri Ercolanesi transforms into a massive village of taste, just steps away from the UNESCO World Heritage site and in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius.

The taste of the sea on your plate

The undisputed star is fresh fish, prepared according to Neapolitan tradition. The food stalls, opening every evening around 8:30 PM, offer a simple and generous menu that combines the best of land and sea:

• Seafood risotto, the festival's signature dish;
• Seafood cone (cuoppo di mare) with crispy mixed fried fish;
• Zeppoline, montanare, and land-based snacks for those who prefer rustic flavors;
• French fries and hot dogs for the little ones.

All of this is accompanied by live music, dancing, and entertainment, creating a popular festive atmosphere that brings together families, young people, and visitors from across the Vesuvius area.

A festival dedicated to solidarity

What makes the Fish Festival unique is its strong charitable mission: the event is organized by the volunteers of the Italian Red Cross - Ercolano Committee, and all proceeds are donated to the association's welfare activities in the area, supporting the communities of Ercolano, Torre del Greco, and Torre Annunziata. Participating means enjoying seafood specialties while supporting a deeply rooted local volunteer project.

A Vesuvius area landmark

Reaching its 19th edition in 2025, the festival has become a consolidated tradition for Ercolano and the entire area south of Naples. The backdrop of the Archaeological Excavations, the ample parking available, and free admission make it the ideal destination for an evening outdoors, filled with great food, conviviality, and a view of the Gulf of Naples.