Fiera della Croce Festival

An ancient spring fair in the heart of the Lepini Mountains

The Fiera della Croce is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Sezze, a hilltop village in the province of Latina overlooking the Pontine Plain, in the heart of the Lepini Mountains. Held annually on May 3rd to coincide with the Feast of the Holy Cross, its roots lie in the local farming culture: organized at the start of spring, the fair was historically the time to purchase tools, goods, and everything needed for the months ahead. Together with the Fiera di San Luca on October 18th, which marks the start of the autumn season, it has defined the city's economic and social calendar for generations.

A historic event recognized by the Lazio Region

The value of the Fiera della Croce goes beyond folklore: in 2023, the event was included—alongside the Fiera di San Luca and the Artichoke Festival—in the Lazio Region's list of historic shops and activities, a recognition that certifies its role as a significant historical event for the local economy. The candidacy was supported by the Municipality with the backing of Confcommercio Lazio Sud as part of the local business network.

What to find at the fair

On the day of the fair, Sezze's historic center transforms into a lively meeting place for tradition, culture, and entertainment. The exhibition area stretches between Porta Pascibella, Via Marconi, and the Parco della Rimembranza, featuring:

• market stalls and commercial pitches assigned via municipal tender, divided into sectors;
• craft displays and local products from the Lepini and Pontine territory;
• scientific outreach activities with the Sunday of Science, curated by the La Macchia Association;
• educational workshops and read-aloud sessions for children and families;
• live music and theatrical performances by local groups such as Matutateatro.

A day for all ages

The program is designed to engage all audiences: the morning is dedicated to stalls and scientific activities, while the afternoon focuses on creative workshops at the park, live music, and theatrical events that close the day between the MAT (the city's theatre space) and the San Michele Arcangelo Auditorium. It is this combination of traditional commerce and contemporary cultural offerings that distinguishes the Sezze fair today.

Sezze: artichokes, theatre, and tradition

The Municipality of Sezze, which organizes the event through its local development and tourism services and the culture office, is also known for the April Artichoke Festival and the historic Passion of Christ on Good Friday. The Fiera della Croce completes this spring calendar and represents an excellent opportunity to discover the medieval historic center, its panoramic views of the plain, and the local gastronomy, just over an hour from Rome and Latina.