Ischia Port Festival

A festival telling the story of Ischia's port

The Port Festival is a civic event through which the Municipality of Ischia, in the Metropolitan City of Naples, Campania, celebrates the birth of its harbor: September 17, 1854. It is neither a food fair nor a simple summer event, but a historical re-enactment that shares the island's maritime origins in one of the most iconic spots in the Gulf of Naples.

The port that used to be a lake

Until the mid-19th century, Ischia's harbor did not exist: in its place was the Lago de' Bagni, a crater basin closed off from the sea, surrounded by thermal springs that already attracted visitors. It was Ferdinand II of Bourbon who ordered the cutting of the isthmus and the opening of the basin to the Tyrrhenian Sea. From that day on, the island had a safe landing point, paving the way for the trade and tourism links that would change its history forever. The festival was created to ensure that this date remains more than just a line in history books.

How the evening unfolds

The heart of the event is a gesture as simple as it is spectacular: in the late afternoon, the port is cleared of all boats and closed to maritime traffic, allowing the water to look like the ancient lake once again. This natural stage hosts the re-enactment, which has developed a recognizable structure over the years:

• The triumphant entrance of King Ferdinand II and his court in period costume, arriving at the dock;
• The historical pageant featuring ancient trades, parading through the town center accompanied by the Ischia City Marching Band;
• A convivial stop in Piazza Antica Reggia, featuring the famous King's Spaghetti and tastings of local island products;
• The grand water show, with light displays, acrobatics, and choreography by the Festi Group;
• Pyromusical fireworks that close the evening before the port reopens.

The route through Ischia's center

The historical procession winds through the urban fabric of Ischia Ponte and Ischia Porto: from the Banchina Olimpica, it reaches Piazza Antica Reggia, then Via Roma, Corso Vittoria Colonna, and Piazzetta San Girolamo, before returning to the main square. It is a short, flat route overlooking the water, allowing the public to follow the procession easily while discovering the island's shopping streets and local venues.

An event built with island associations

The event is directed by the Municipality of Ischia, which involves local associations, neighborhood committees, and business operators every year: from creating period costumes to managing food areas, and from the marching band to the musical groups performing in Piazza Antica Reggia. It is a self-funded and deeply participatory festival, where the island community shares its story with residents and the many visitors who choose Ischia in September.

Why visit in September

September is perhaps the best month for Ischia: the sea is still warm, the thermal baths and beaches are less crowded, and the municipal calendar remains full until autumn. The Port Festival fits perfectly into this late season, offering those vacationing in Campania an unusual, free, and family-friendly opportunity to see the port in a different light. Those arriving from the mainland should keep one practical detail in mind: during the event, ferry and hydrofoil connections are suspended or modified, so it is best to check the schedules before traveling.