Historical Fair of Sant'Agata di Militello (Spring Edition)

A centuries-old fair on the Tyrrhenian coast

The Historical Fair of Sant'Agata di Militello is the oldest and most cherished event in the calendar of Sant'Agata di Militello, located along the Tyrrhenian coast of the province of Messina, Sicily. It is an event of great identity-defining importance for the local community and the entire Nebrodi hinterland, drawing visitors from far beyond the local area for centuries. The fair is traditionally held twice a year, in April and November: the spring edition marks the start of the season and brings thousands of visitors to the seafront.

The origins: the 1700 decree

While the roots of the fair reach back to the Middle Ages, its official birth date is July 28, 1700, when the right to host it was granted to Don Gaetano Gallego Ventimiglia, Prince of Militello and Marquess of Sant'Agata. Originally a major livestock market, it has evolved over the centuries into a broader, more diverse event while maintaining its authentic rural and agricultural spirit.

Carriages, horses, and traditions

The spectacular heart of the fair is the parade of carriages, carts, and horses that travels along the seafront, reviving the customs and trades of the past. Alongside the livestock section, featuring sheep, cattle, pigs, and horses, the event showcases:

• local agricultural products and citrus fruits;
• Nebrodi food and wine specialties, from cheeses and cured meats to olive oil;
• local handicrafts, including embroidery and wrought iron work;
• stalls featuring traditional products and street food.

On the Sant'Agata seafront

The entire event is concentrated on the seafront of Sant'Agata di Militello and the surrounding streets, which transform into a large open-air market overlooking the sea for two days. To facilitate the fair, the Municipality issues specific traffic ordinances each year, including one-way systems and parking bans in the affected areas.

A heritage to experience

More than just a commercial fair, the event is an opportunity to rediscover the folk traditions, flavors, and trades of the Nebrodi mountains. Promoting the region, its products, and its agricultural memory has always been the goal of an event that, edition after edition, remains a landmark for Sant'Agata di Militello and the entire province of Messina.