Saint Mark's Festival in Gaio

A Village Festival on the Tagliamento

A few kilometers from the center of Spilimbergo, the hamlet of Gaio celebrates its Sagra di San Marco every year at the end of April. It's one of those village festivals that tell the most authentic story of western Friuli. Organized by the Pro Loco I Due Campanili, the festival combines devotion to the patron saint, Saint Mark, with two days of good food, music, and socialising, in a family atmosphere that draws residents and visitors from nearby towns.

Friulian Cuisine Takes Centre Stage

The heart of the festival is the food stalls, where you can taste local specialties: gnocchi, grilled dishes, calamari, frico, cheeses, and desserts, accompanied by wines, beers, and drinks. The kitchens are open for lunch and dinner on Sunday, while Saturday evening's opening kicks off the festivities with live music. It's an opportunity to savour the authenticity of Friulian cuisine in a popular and welcoming setting.

Community, Music, and Tradition

Alongside the food, the program alternates between concerts by the "Città di Spilimbergo" Philharmonic Band, musical evenings with dance orchestras, board games and family games, and green spaces dedicated to children. There is also a religious moment, with the Holy Mass in the church of Saint Mark, and initiatives like the "Motorins fra i cjampanilis" tourist tour. It is a festival that focuses on community spirit, supported by the work of the Pro Loco volunteers and the affection of the hamlet of Gaio.