Poor Man's Fish Festival

A festival dedicated to the humble flavors of the sea

The Poor Man's Fish Festival is one of the most beloved gastronomic events of the summer in Capoliveri, a hilltop village overlooking the sea on the southeastern side of the Island of Elba, in the Province of Livorno, Tuscany. The event celebrates the so-called 'poor man's fish': the oily fish species and simple preparations that were once the daily staple for fishing families, far removed from expensive, prized catches. It is a festival that tells the story of the island's maritime identity through taste.

Traditional Elban dishes

Along Viale Italia, in the town center, stalls offer typical recipes from Capoliveri and Rio. The dishes that traditionally bring the evening to life include:

• Stoccafisso alla riese, one of Elba's signature dishes, made with potatoes, olives, and capers;
• Cacciucco, the famous fish soup of the Tyrrhenian tradition;
• Sardines, marinated or grilled, and other oily fish;
• Boiled octopus and stuffed squid;
• Sburrita and panzanella alla tonnina, classic island appetizers;

Everything is accompanied by local Elban wines. The legend of cacciucco, born from the union of different fish donated by several fishermen to a poor family, perfectly summarizes the spirit of the festival: something delicious born from simplicity and sharing.

A convivial event for families

The Poor Man's Fish Festival is about more than just food: the evening unfolds in a festive atmosphere with live music and the entertainment that defines summer nights in Capoliveri. Over the years, the event has also included activities for children, such as games and inflatables, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. The village, with its narrow alleys, small squares, and shops open late into the night, provides the ideal backdrop for this evening that combines gastronomy, tradition, and conviviality.

Capoliveri and the Island of Elba

Capoliveri is one of the most cherished towns on Elba. Perched about 160 meters above sea level, it overlooks the Gulf of Stella and Porto Azzurro, and is famous for its beaches, the Calamita mines, and the vibrancy of its historic center. The Poor Man's Fish Festival is part of the Municipality's rich summer calendar, filled with food festivals, historical re-enactments, and culinary evenings that bring the island to life from June to September.