Discover Calabria through its Festivals

Traditions and folklore, evidence of its rich history, represent the unique richness of Calabria.

Religious traditions are also very strong in Calabria. 

You’ll experience unique and spectacular events where you’ll think you’re back in time and you’ll feel unique and unexpected emotions. The passion, the warmth of the people, the sights and sounds and the culinary traditions full of spicy flavors will leave you with unforgettable memories. The myriad of feasts and celebrations, notable for beautiful decorations, festive lights, village fairs and fireworks, are prevalently of a religious nature. Along with these religious celebrations, one can experience culinary fairs and historical village festivals.

Our resort guests will have the opportunity to experience these unique and unforgettable events.

TROPEA, May "I tri da cruci"
Every year on May 3, a festival called “I tre da cruci”- the three crosses, takes place in Tropea. Its name originates from the three wooden crosses which were placed in the church of the souls of purgatory after the collapse of the small, holy buildings where they were originally located. The crosses are still greatly venerated today. The feast relives many events in the history of Tropea, in particular the participation of many of its citizens in the battle of Lepanto.

During the festival, the expulsion of the Saracens is re-enacted, and specifically, the capture of the tax collector who was hated by everyone because he rode around the streets of the town on camel to collect taxes.

The infidel, represented by a puppet stuffed with fireworks, is chased  by the “bourgeoisie”, who in the end manage to expel him and light him up on fire.

VIBO VALENTIA, August "Il Palio di Diana"
Every year in Vibo Valentia, Il Palio di Diana relives the legendary story of the heroine of Vibo who lived during the beginning of the 1500’s. Il Palio takes places in the historic center of Vibo. It begins with a representation of Diana’s life in period costumes and  a competition amongst the different quarters of the city. A series of traditional competitions follow: a tug-of-war, a sack race and the breaking of a “piñata”. In the days preceding the festival, the sights and sounds of the Renaissance are re-lived in a charming atmosphere that takes you back in time. You’ll experience the court of nobles and the handicrafts of the artisan shops. A few days after the festival, the horse race tournament begins. Adding to the charm of this animated festival, acrobats, jesters and jugglers perform lively acts.

TROPEA, first week of July “Sagra della Cipolla Rossa"
Every year during the first week of July, the feast of the red onion takes place to honour the queen of the gastronomy of Tropea. Many farm stands display and sell their home-made gastronomic specialties. They scrupulously follow the antique recipes that have been passed along for generations. The feast concludes with games and musical shows.

VIBO VALENTIA, last week of August  “La festa del turista"
On the last Sunday in August, the ‘Feast of the tourist’ is organized to celebrate the conclusion of the summer holidays. The show consists of many events and takes place in the Piazza Municipio. You’ll witness the gathering of the “giants” (larger-than-life paper machè depictions of the Saracens), the finals for the election of Miss Stella del Sud and Miss Vibo Valentia and live concerts of soloists and bands. It’s also the perfect occasion to taste the delicious specialties and exquisite products of our regions: salsiccia alla ndujà, focacce, the so-called ‘pitte’, home-made ricotta and locally fished tuna. To bring the festival to a worthy conclusion, Vibo’s master pastry chefs offer a sumptuous array of pastries, cakes and other unique sweet creations.