Secolare Fiera di San Michele

A centuries-old fair in the heart of the Monti Lepini

The Secolare Fiera di San Michele is one of the most deeply rooted events in the Lepini and Pontine territory. Its origins lie in the traditions of local hill farmers who, at the end of September—coinciding with the feast of Saint Michael—would descend to Sermoneta for livestock trading. From that humble farmers' market, an event has evolved that the Lazio Region has officially recognized as a fair of historical interest. Today, the Municipality of Sermoneta organizes it as a premier showcase for the agricultural and productive excellence of the Latina province and the entire Lazio region.

Over two hectares of market stalls in Monticchio

The fair takes place in the Monticchio market area, at the foot of the medieval village of Sermoneta, covering an exhibition space of over two hectares. Recent editions have featured around 130 stands, involving more than 500 exhibitors and operators. The layout alternates between commercial pavilions, food-focused marquees, dining areas, and open-air spaces:

• local products and food & wine: wines, extra virgin olive oil, Pontine specialties, and street food;
• horticulture and agriculture: plants, equipment, and innovations for the agricultural sector;
• livestock: exhibitions of local animals, a direct legacy of the ancient cattle market;
• artistic crafts, home decor, and technology;
• dining areas featuring traditional specialties, starting with the famous grilled braciola.

Equestrian shows, folklore, and evening concerts

Each day of the fair is marked by equestrian shows, flag-waver performances, and folklore displays, with a dedicated children's play area and educational farm activities that engage hundreds of local students every year. In the evenings, starting at 9 PM, the main stage hosts free concerts and musical performances: recent guests have included Michele Zarrillo, the Mirko Casadei orchestra, and Angelo Famao.

Hillside olive oil and local flavors

Beyond its commercial aspect, the fair serves as a laboratory for promoting local agriculture. In collaboration with Capol, it hosts the «L'Olio delle colline a Sermoneta» competition, tastings of extra virgin olive oil and traditional soups, as well as conferences on agriculture and rural development. In 2025, the fair launched Sator, the municipal brand for Sermoneta olive oil.

An identity-defining event for Sermoneta and Lazio

Promoted by the Municipality of Sermoneta with the patronage of the Ministry of Agriculture, the Lazio Region, the Province of Latina, and the Chamber of Commerce, with the support of Arsial and the collaboration of Coldiretti and Confcommercio Lazio Sud, the Secolare Fiera di San Michele offers free admission and attracts thousands of visitors from across the Pontine province and lower Lazio every year. It is the perfect opportunity to combine a visit to the fair with the discovery of Sermoneta's historic center, featuring the Castello Caetani and the village's medieval alleys.