Fish Festival

A festival born from the lake

The Fish Festival is the signature event of Anguillara Sabazia, a village overlooking Lake Bracciano, in the Metropolitan City of Rome, Lazio. For over sixty years, the Pro Loco Anguillara Sabazia 2007 A.P.S. has organized this gathering, which celebrates the profound connection between the town and its waters, bringing the most authentic flavors of the lakeside tradition to the historic center and the lakefront. The theme chosen for the most recent edition, «Return to traditions with the flavors of the lake», perfectly captures the spirit of the celebration.

The flavors of Lake Bracciano

The absolute star is the lake fish, prepared according to recipes passed down by generations of local fishermen. The iconic dish is the paper cone of fried 'lattarini', small freshwater fish offered as a free tasting, accompanied by whitefish and other typical products of the Sabatino area. Along via del Molo and the streets of the center, fraschette (traditional taverns) and a local food market are set up, open from morning until midnight, where you can savor specialties paired with local wines. There are also live cooking shows with chefs and Lady Chefs, turning the squares into open-air kitchens.

Music, folklore, and entertainment

The Fish Festival is not just about gastronomy: the evenings come alive with live concerts by well-known artists, folk groups, and street performers wandering through the village. The most evocative moment arrives on Sunday evening, when fireworks reflect on the lake waters, providing a pyrotechnic display that concludes the event. Throughout the two days, there are also photography exhibitions, guided tours of the historic center, and areas dedicated to children.

A quality festival

Recognized with the «Quality Festival» mark and supported by the Lazio Region and ARSIAL, the event represents a model for promoting zero-kilometer products and the popular traditions of Lake Bracciano. Every year, it attracts thousands of visitors from Rome and neighboring towns who choose Anguillara Sabazia to spend a weekend enjoying fine food, music, and the lakeside landscape.

Anguillara Sabazia and its village

Nestled on a promontory jutting into the lake, the historic center of Anguillara Sabazia retains a medieval charm with its narrow streets, the ancient entrance gate, and the Collegiate Church overlooking the water. During the festival, the village transforms into a natural stage, ideal for combining the discovery of local heritage with the pleasure of good lakeside cuisine.