Falasche Ciciotti Festival

The Falasche district festival

The Falasche Ciciotti Festival is one of the most anticipated gastronomic events of the summer in Anzio, a coastal city south of Rome in the heart of the Lazio region. Every year, the local Falasche district gathers around its symbolic recipe—the ciciotti—transforming the Simonetta Colaceci Municipal Park into a vibrant open-air festival filled with long tables, music, and joy.

What are ciciotti?

Ciciotti are a type of short, artisanal pasta made from humble, genuine ingredients: flour, water, and a pinch of salt. Similar in shape to short-cut tonnarelli, in Anzio they are traditionally served with a rich meat sauce, tomato paste, guanciale, pancetta, extra virgin olive oil, and a touch of chili pepper. It is a traditional peasant dish, passed down through generations, which the district proudly claims as its own identity.

Three days of festivities

The event takes place over three evenings. Food stalls generally open at 7:00 PM, offering a wide menu of local specialties alongside the star dish, the ciciotti. After dinner, the stage comes alive with dance orchestras and tribute bands that keep the atmosphere buzzing until late. There is no shortage of fun, lighthearted moments, such as the famous "Guess the weight of the ham" contest and local sports demonstrations.

• Traditional cuisine featuring ciciotti as the signature dish
• Dance evenings with live orchestras and bands
• Competitions, games, and entertainment for all ages
• Fireworks display on the final night

A community celebration

Organized by the Associazione Culturale Falascana OdV with the patronage of the Municipality of Anzio, the festival is much more than just a food event: it is a moment for the neighborhood to come together, showcasing the hard work of volunteers, often in support of local social initiatives. The atmosphere is that of a genuine Lazio village feast, where good food meets conviviality and a strong sense of belonging.

Reaching its 25th edition in 2026, the Ciciotti Festival is a must-visit for anyone spending their summer on the Roman coast looking to discover the authentic flavors of Anzio.