Stracittadina of Avezzano

The Stracittadina of Avezzano: Sport and community in the heart of Marsica

The Stracittadina of Avezzano is much more than just a road race: it is the premier grassroots sporting celebration of the Marsica region. Every year in late June, it fills the streets of Avezzano, in the province of L'Aquila, in the heart of Abruzzo. Established in 2013 and organized by the ASD Stracittadina di Avezzano, led by Antonella Di Carlo, the event has grown year after year to become one of the most popular running fixtures in the region, recognized by the Libertas National Trophy and included in the Corri Marsica UISP and Corrilabruzzo UISP circuits.

A route that tells the city's story

The race starts in Piazza Risorgimento, the city's main square, and winds through the landmarks of the town's history. The event features multiple formats to welcome everyone: a competitive race of approximately 10 kilometers for registered athletes, a non-competitive run, and a fun walk of just over three kilometers, open to anyone who wants to participate without a timer. Completing the lineup is the Stracittadina Junior, dedicated to children, making the day a true family event.

Sport, solidarity, and culture

The hallmark of the Stracittadina is the blend of competition and social commitment. Each edition pairs the race with a series of charity initiatives—from non-competitive runs supporting LILT to walks for local associations—alongside an "eco-run" with waste collection that promotes sustainability through the city streets. The race is surrounded by concerts, open-air art exhibitions, visits to historical sites, and evening entertainment, in line with the "Avezzano — City of Culture in Motion" project promoted in partnership with the Municipality.

A late-June tradition

Traditionally held on a Sunday in late June, with a late evening start when the heat gives way to cooler temperatures, the Stracittadina attracts sports clubs from all over Abruzzo and neighboring regions, from the Briganti d'Abruzzo to Runners Chieti and teams from Lazio. For Avezzano and the entire Marsica area, it has become a tradition that unites grassroots sports, local promotion, and a sense of community.