The historic duck festival of Gruaro, in Eastern Veneto
In the heart of the summer drawing to a close, Gruaro โ a small municipality in the province of Venice nestled in Eastern Veneto, a few kilometers from Portogruaro โ transforms for ten days into the capital of the rassa, the duck that gives the festival its name. The Sagra della Rassa is one of the most deeply rooted events in the area: born in the early seventies, it has surpassed its fiftieth edition, a sign of popular attachment that is renewed from generation to generation.
The heart of the festival is the food and wine stall housed in a large covered structure, where the rassa is served according to traditional recipes, accompanied by other local specialties. Around the kitchen, a true festival village develops, with kiosks, craft and flea markets, exhibitions, and the classic charity raffle.
Every evening, the Sagra della Rassa offers entertainment for all ages: ballroom orchestras, bands, DJ sets, live music, and group dancing. The calendar is enriched with side events โ briscola card game competitions, tournaments, motorcycle and bicycle tours through the Eastern Veneto countryside โ culminating in a grand finale with a fireworks display that closes the celebrations.
Organized by the local community associations, the festival is the time of year when Gruaro comes together: an event that combines good Venetian cuisine, conviviality, and popular celebration, perfect for those who want to discover an authentic corner of the province of Venice.
After the 54th edition in 2025, the Sagra della Rassa in Gruaro celebrates its 55th edition in 2026. The event returns to its usual slot, between late August and early September, spread over two weekends. The festival's cornerstones are confirmed: the food and wine stall with 'rassa' and local specialties, ballroom orchestras and evening DJ sets, craft and flea markets, charity raffles, briscola competitions, and motorcycle and bicycle tours.
The detailed program for the 55th edition, including the schedule of orchestras and evening events, will be published by the organizers on the official website and Facebook page in the weeks leading up to the festival. Based on the established structure, the event includes:
Program to be updated.
The 'rassa' cooked according to tradition, the ballroom orchestras, and the fireworks display that concludes the ten days of festivities.
Gruaro is located in Eastern Veneto, in the province of Venice, near Portogruaro. By car: Portogruaro (A4) motorway exit. By train: Portogruaro-Caorle station, then local transport.
Free entry to the festival area; payment upon consumption at the food and wine stalls.
The festival takes place between late August and early September, spread over two weekends.
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Area festeggiamenti di Gruaro
Via Roma, 30020 Gruaro