"Flavio Fiorletta" International Folklore Festival

A bridge between cultures in the heart of Ciociaria

In August, the historic center of Alatri, in the province of Frosinone (Lazio), transforms into a grand open-air stage. The "Flavio Fiorletta" International Folklore Festival brings the music, dances, and traditions of folk groups from all over the world to the streets, alleys, and squares of this ancient town. It is one of the most cherished events of the Ciociaria summer, attracting thousands of visitors every year beneath the megalithic walls of the famous Acropolis.

History and Flavio Fiorletta

The event has its roots in the "Aria di Casa Nostra" folk group, founded in Alatri by Flavio Fiorletta, to whom the festival is dedicated. Born in the 1970s, the event has grown into an international festival affiliated with CIOFF (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts), a global network under the aegis of UNESCO. Today, the festival is promoted by the Municipality of Alatri with the support of local cultural associations.

Experiencing the festival

The festival takes place over several evenings around Ferragosto. The heart of the performances is Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore, where every evening from 9:00 PM, guest groups take turns on stage with traditional dances and music. The event opens with a grand parade of the groups along Viale Duca D'Aosta and continues through the alleys of the center with roving performances.

• Opening parade of groups in traditional costume through the city streets.
• Evening shows in Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore featuring dances from four continents.
• Food stalls in the historic center, open from the evening, to taste typical dishes from the guest nations.
• Cultural meeting points, exhibitions, and side events scattered throughout the village.

Traditions from around the world

The strength of the Alatri Festival lies in its international vocation: the stages host performers who regularly represent four continents, bringing the costumes, instruments, and choreography of distant lands to Ciociaria. It is a unique opportunity to discover, in just a few evenings, the richness of the intangible heritage of dozens of different cultures, from Europe to Latin America, from Africa to Asia.

Alatri, a city to discover

The festival is also an invitation to visit Alatri, one of the most fascinating villages in southern Lazio. Its Acropolis, surrounded by imposing cyclopean walls in polygonal masonry, is among the best-preserved megalithic sites in Italy. Strolling through the streets of the historic center during the festival evenings, amidst music and scents from every corner of the planet, is an experience that blends great history with popular celebration.