Sagre dala Bisate

The Eel of the Stella River

In Ariis, an ancient hamlet of Rivignano Teor nestled in the lower Friulian plain, flows the Stella River, one of the few navigable spring-fed rivers in Italy. It is from these waters that the symbolic product of one of Friuli's most beloved and long-standing festivals originates: the bisat, the eel, celebrated every summer by the Sagre dala Bisate — the Eel Festival — in honour of Saint James the Apostle. With over fifty years of history (the 53rd edition was held in 2025), it is an event that draws gourmets from all over the region.

Two Weekends of Flavours

The festival traditionally spans two weekends in July, in the green park overlooking the bend of the Stella River. At the food stands, eel is the queen of the table, prepared according to traditional recipes, but the menu also offers excellent grilled meats, accompanied by wines and beers that enhance the local flavours. Genuine and abundant cuisine, served in a natural setting of rare charm.

Music, Market, and Fireworks

Alongside the gastronomy, the programme offers many dancing evenings with folk and Friulian dance orchestras, DJ sets for the younger crowd, raffles, chainsaw carving exhibitions, and on Sundays, the artisan market. To end on a high note, the unmissable grand finale fireworks display illuminates the sky above the river.

Between Nature and Culture

The setting makes the Sagre dala Bisate even more special: a short walk away are the Regional Aquarium of Ariis, dedicated to the river fauna of Friuli, and the historic Villa Ottelio Savorgnan with its park. Organised by the Pro Loco Ariis APS, the festival combines devotion, good food, and love for the territory, confirming itself as one of the most authentic summer festivals in the Friulian plain.