Sagra della Cozza

A tradition that smells of the sea

The Sagra della Cozza is one of the most established food and wine events in the area of the Municipality of Monte San Vito, in the Province of Ancona. It takes place every year in June in the small hamlet of Le Cozze, a place name that alone tells of the deep bond between this corner of the Marche region and the famous mollusc. For almost thirty years, the Associazione Le Cozze has attracted thousands of visitors here, transforming the village streets into a large convivial space made up of food stalls, music, and dancing.

What to eat

The heart of the festival is naturally the mussel, offered in all its tastiest preparations. Among the dishes that have made the event famous, you will find:

• Mussels tarantina-style, stewed with tomato and parsley;
• Gratin mussels baked in the oven;
• Mussels with potatoes;
• Seafood pasta dishes such as spaghetti allo scoglio (spaghetti with seafood) and gnocchi with seafood delights;
• Fish skewers, fried dishes, Ascolana olives, and side dishes such as French fries and pickled vegetables.

There is also the classic piadina (flatbread) with ham for those who prefer a taste of the land. Everything is served under marquees, with both outdoor and indoor seating to comfortably enjoy any summer evening.

Music and atmosphere

The festival is not just about food: every evening, after the stalls open, the space comes alive with ballroom and folk dancing, accompanied by live bands that alternate throughout the event. It is a festival designed for all ages, with fun for adults and children, which keeps alive the community dimension of Marche's popular traditions.

An event on the Marche calendar

Included in the rich program of summer festivals in the Marche region, the Sagra della Cozza of Monte San Vito is the perfect opportunity to discover an authentic village in the Ancona hinterland and to taste the sea at the table in a genuine and welcoming setting. Admission is free, and the event is held concurrently with the start of the good season, when the entire community gathers around the tables.