Lumacata di San Giovanni Festival

The Lumacata di San Giovanni in Civitavecchia

Every year, on the night between June 23rd and 24th, Civitavecchia renews one of its most beloved traditions: the Lumacata di San Giovanni. The festival takes place along Via Trieste, in the heart of the historic Ghetto district, transforming the city center into a grand convivial gathering where the signature dish is stewed snails, offered for free alongside bread and wine.

A tradition from the night of the witches

The event is rooted in the devotion to Saint John the Baptist, celebrated on June 24th. As in Rome and many towns across the Lazio region, the night of Saint John is famously known as the "night of the witches." According to popular tradition, snails were eaten because their horns represented discord and worries, and consuming them was believed to ward off sorrow and bad luck. Thus, snails became a symbol of renewal, transformation, and a deep connection to the earth.

The star of the show and the De.Co. mark

Today, the Lumacata is a historic event recognized with the De.Co. mark (Municipal Denomination of Origin), which protects and promotes local products and traditions. The snails are prepared according to the local stewed recipe and distributed for free to the public, thanks to the participation of several local restaurants, including Dolce Salato, Taverna dell'Olmo, Estro, and Ristocatering.

The evening program

The festivities kick off around 8:30 PM with the free tasting of stewed snails, accompanied by bread and wine. The festival is brought to life by folk songs, traditional music, and entertainment that recreates the authentic atmosphere of celebrations from the past, filled with tales, stories, and traditions linked to one of the most fascinating events in Civitavecchia's cultural heritage.

A Pro Loco event for the city

The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Civitavecchia with the support of the municipal administration, which has established the Lumacata as one of the defining events of the local summer. It is a free event open to everyone, drawing hundreds of residents, families, and curious visitors to Via Trieste.

Civitavecchia and the Lazio region

As the main port of the Lazio region and a key Mediterranean hub, the town of Civitavecchia, in the Province of Rome, preserves a rich popular identity built on festivals, flavors, and memory. The Lumacata di San Giovanni is one of its most genuine expressions: an opportunity to rediscover the city's roots during an evening of sharing and joy.