Fisherman's Festival in Santa Maria la Scala

A seaside festival at the foot of Acireale

The Fisherman's Festival brings Santa Maria la Scala to life every late August. This ancient seaside village gathers around its small harbor, nestled at the foot of the Timpa of Acireale, in the province of Catania. For a few evenings, this corner of the Ionian coast, home to only a few hundred residents, welcomes thousands of visitors who descend to the sea to enjoy freshly caught fish and soak in the authentic atmosphere of a fishing village.

Swordfish as the absolute star

Swordfish caught by local fishermen is the undisputed star of the event. Along the narrow streets and the village square, food stalls line up, offering the fish in all its variations: fresh pasta with swordfish, grilled swordfish steaks, skewers, swordfish kebabs, swordfish sausage, and stuffed sandwiches, alongside the essential fried seafood platter. The cooking is often done by the local women—mothers, aunts, and grandmothers—following recipes passed down through generations, in a family atmosphere that is the true heart of the event.

Between devotion and maritime tradition

The festival intertwines with the festivities in honor of Maria SS. della Scala, the hamlet's patron saint, in a blend of the sacred and the profane typical of Sicily. The event was created to promote local catches and keep alive the tough, ancient profession of the fisherman, which has always defined this village's identity. The event is organized by the Fishermen and Youth Association together with SML Scala Onlus, with the support of the Municipality of Acireale.

How to enjoy the evening

Admission to the stalls is free, and you only pay for what you consume. Given the difficulty of parking in the village, a free shuttle service runs from Acireale to Santa Maria la Scala during the evenings, with frequent departures. Between courses, the square lights up with live music and entertainment, with the harbor and the boats hauled onto the shore providing a natural backdrop.