La Scampagnata

The May Day Scampagnata in San Giacomo

Every May 1st, the village of San Giacomo, in the municipality of Scerni (Chieti province, Abruzzo), becomes the heart of a popular festival that blends nature, tradition, and conviviality: La Scampagnata. Organized by the Pro Loco San Giacomo di Scerni APS with the support of the Scerni municipal government, the event draws residents, families, and visitors from the surrounding Vastese area every year.

A hike through the woods and countryside

The day begins in the morning with an optional, free hike departing from the Baita di San Giacomo. The route, covering about 6 kilometers and lasting two hours, is of moderate difficulty but accessible, winding through woods, typical Scerni countryside, and the agricultural school area. A refreshment stop offered by the Pro Loco is planned halfway. Those who prefer not to hike can head directly to the festival area for lunch. The route is designed as a journey "in the footsteps of Transhumance," a key element of local identity that links this territory to the ancient sheep tracks of Abruzzo.

A communal lunch of Abruzzo flavors

After the hike, the most anticipated moment is the communal lunch, served in the "Fonte Sant'Angelo" picnic area behind the church of San Giacomo Apostolo. The menu celebrates local specialties: pasta with ventricina sauce, fava beans, pecorino cheese, ventricina salami, bread, and a glass of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine. The event's subtitle, "Fava beans, pecorino, and ventricina," is a tribute to this rustic local cuisine.

Music, dancing, and tradition

The afternoon continues in high spirits with music, karaoke, and group dancing that keep the festival area lively until late in the day. La Scampagnata has become a well-established May Day tradition in Scerni: an opportunity to rediscover the landscape, honor the rhythms of transhumance, and enjoy the outdoors on one of the most symbolic days of the Abruzzo spring.

Useful information

Reservations for lunch are recommended through the Pro Loco San Giacomo di Scerni. For the hike, trekking shoes and comfortable clothing are advised. The event takes place in the village of San Giacomo, easily accessible from the center of Scerni.