Strawberry Festival – Mediterranean Festival

A celebration of horses and strawberries

The Strawberry Festival, hosted within the larger Mediterranean Festival, has been a staple of the Syracuse spring calendar for decades. It takes place in the expansive green grounds of the Ippodromo del Mediterraneo, located along Strada Spinagallo in the territory of Syracuse, just a few kilometers from the village of Cassibile in the province of Syracuse, Sicily. The event uniquely combines two worlds: the grand tradition of Italian horse racing and the celebration of a local iconic product, the strawberry.

The Camarosa strawberry of Cassibile

The undisputed star is the Camarosa strawberry of Cassibile, a large-sized variety known for its extraordinary sweetness and intense flesh, grown in the countryside surrounding the village. The most anticipated moment is the serving of the 600 kg giant strawberry cake, the true symbol of the event, which draws thousands of food lovers every year.

Elite horse racing

The racing calendar alternates between trotting meetings and galloping days. The highlight is May 1st, featuring the galloping Grand Prix and the prestigious City of Syracuse Prize, a class handicap race held on the main track that attracts stables and jockeys from all over Italy. There is no shortage of equestrian shows, pony rides, and performances for all ages.

Stalls, music, and entertainment

A true festival village comes to life around the tracks: over a hundred stalls, an artisan market, a food area with local delicacies, a children's area, and entertainment activities like 'Pompieropoli' (firefighter-themed games). The stage hosts a rotating lineup of musicians, flag-wavers, dance schools, DJ sets, and tribute concerts that liven up the evenings.

A major attraction

With over 80,000 spectators recorded in previous editions, the Strawberry Festival is one of the most popular events in the Syracuse region. Free admission and a family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the Sicilian spring through sport, flavor, and tradition.