Feast of Our Lady of the Fish Market
Portogruaro's Ferragosto between devotion, river procession, and fishermen's tradition
About Our Lady of the Fish Market
Ferragosto on the Lemene River
In Portogruaro, in the Province of Venice, the day of Ferragosto holds a special significance tied to Our Lady of the Fish Market. Every August 15th, the Mass in honour of the Madonna is celebrated in the wooden oratory of the Piazzetta della Pescheria, continuing a devotion that dates back to the early 17th century.
The tradition of Caorle fishermen
The cult originated from the ancient custom of the fishermen of Caorle, who used to sail up the canals and the river to trade fish at the Portogruaro fish market. After obtaining permission to build the first wooden oratory, the fishermen inextricably linked the Assumption feast day to their trade and the river.
The river procession
For some years now, the Pro Loco (local tourism board) has organised a captivating event on the evening of August 15th: after reciting the rosary in Piazzetta della Pescheria, the 'caorline' from Caorle and the 'batèi' from Concordia Sagittaria sail up the river, guided by figures in costume and illuminated by torches, to the square. This is a historical re-enactment that moves residents and visitors alike.
A feast since the 17th century
With solemn masses, popular devotion, and re-enactments, the Feast of Our Lady of the Fish Market preserves the unbroken link between Portogruaro, its river, and the fishing communities of the Eastern Veneto, in one of the most characteristic events of the city's summer.
Our Lady of the Fish Market — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Feast of Our Lady of the Fish Market takes place on August 15th, the Assumption day, in Piazzetta della Pescheria in Portogruaro.
As per established tradition, the day alternates Masses in honour of the Madonna with the evening re-enactment: after the rosary, the 'caorline' from Caorle and the 'batèi' from Concordia Sagittaria sail up the Lemene river illuminated by torches, culminating in the symbolic offering in the square. The precise times of the celebrations will be published by the parish in the days before the feast.
Programme Our Lady of the Fish Market 2026
August 15, 2026 — Piazzetta della Pescheria
- Holy Masses in honour of Our Lady of the Fish Market throughout the day
- In the evening — recitation of the rosary in Piazzetta della Pescheria
- Following that — historical re-enactment with the arrival of the 'caorline' from Caorle and the 'batèi' from Concordia Sagittaria, illuminated by torches, and symbolic offering of a basket with fruits of the land and sea
The precise times for the Masses and the re-enactment will be published by the parish in the days preceding the event.
Highlights Our Lady of the Fish Market 2026
Prices Our Lady of the Fish Market 2026
Practical information — Our Lady of the Fish Market
How to get there
Portogruaro is accessible by train (Portogruaro-Caorle station) and by car via the A4 motorway, Portogruaro exit. The celebrations take place in Piazzetta della Pescheria, in the historic centre along the Lemene river.
When
August 15th, the day of the Assumption (Ferragosto).
Admission
Free access to the celebrations and the river re-enactment.
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Where does it take place — Our Lady of the Fish Market
Piazzetta della Pescheria
Piazzetta della Pescheria, 30026 Portogruaro