On August 15, Italy changes pace. Cities grow quieter, beaches fill up, families come together, and lunches seem to last a little longer than usual. It is Ferragosto, one of the most beloved celebrations of the Italian summer.
But Ferragosto is more than just a day off. It is a tradition that brings together history, summer travel, time with loved ones, and, of course, delicious Italian food. To truly understand it, we need to go back more than two thousand years.
What Is Ferragosto?
Ferragosto is an Italian national holiday celebrated every year on August 15. For many Italians, it marks the heart of summer: a day to spend at the beach, in the mountains, in the countryside, or gathered around the table with family and friends.
The traditional greeting Buon Ferragosto captures the spirit of the holiday: slow down, enjoy the season, and make time for the people who matter.
From Feriae Augusti to August 15
The name Ferragosto comes from the Latin Feriae Augusti, meaning “the festivals of Augustus". The celebration was introduced by Emperor Augustus in 18 BC and was originally observed on the first day of August.
The holiday was part of a wider season of festivities marking the end of the most demanding agricultural work. After weeks spent working in the fields, laborers were given time to rest, take part in celebrations, and share the occasion with their communities.
Over the centuries, the tradition became connected with the Catholic Feast of the Assumption of Mary, celebrated on August 15. This combination shaped Ferragosto as it is known today: a holiday with ancient roots, religious meaning, and a strong place in Italian popular culture.
The custom of taking a Ferragosto trip became especially popular during the twentieth century. Discounted train fares allowed many families to travel to the coast, the mountains, or Italy’s historic cities for the first time. This helped create the image that still defines Ferragosto today: Italians heading out for a summer getaway.
How Is Ferragosto Celebrated in Italy?
There is no single way to celebrate Ferragosto. Some people leave for a short vacation, some organize a picnic, others spend the day at the beach, and many gather for a long family lunch.
Traditions vary from one region to another, but a few elements can be found almost everywhere:
- time with family and friends;
- days by the sea or walks in the mountains;
- outdoor lunches, picnics, and barbecues;
- local festivals, concerts, and celebrations;
- tables filled with dishes made for sharing.
Ultimately, Ferragosto is not defined by a specific plan. Its true meaning lies in making time to rest, reconnect, and enjoy a meal together without rushing.
What Do Italians Eat on Ferragosto?
There is no single traditional Ferragosto menu across Italy. What people eat depends on the region, the weather, and each family’s customs. This variety is part of what makes Italian cuisine so rich.
Some families prepare lasagna, baked pasta, or eggplant parmigiana. Others choose lighter summer dishes such as pasta salads, cured meats, cheeses, and seasonal vegetables. Grilled meat or seafood, focaccia, sandwiches, and piadina are also popular for outdoor gatherings and beach picnics.
Fresh summer fruit is essential, especially watermelon, followed by a chilled dessert or gelato. And a bottle of Italian wine, carefully chosen to complement the food and the occasion, often completes the meal.
Ferragosto food does not follow strict rules. It can be simple or abundant, prepared at home or packed for the beach. What matters most is sharing it: food becomes a way to bring people together and create lasting memories.
The Italian Taste of Togetherness
Ferragosto reflects something central to Italian culture: eating is never only about the food. It is about sitting together, talking, laughing, and giving your time to the people you love.
The same spirit lives in handmade pasta, carefully prepared sauces, and regional recipes passed down through generations. A serving of lasagna, a plate of tagliatelle, or a shared piadina can turn an everyday meal into an authentically Italian experience.
The Italian Homemade Company was founded on this very idea. Since 2014, we have brought the culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna to the United States through fresh pasta, piadina, cassoni, lasagna, and other specialties made with simple ingredients and authentic methods.
Experience the Spirit of Ferragosto at The Italian Homemade Company
You do not have to be in Italy to enjoy the pleasure of gathering around an Italian table. At The Italian Homemade Company locations in San Francisco, Berkeley, Long Beach, and Chicago, you can enjoy pasta made fresh daily, lasagna, piadina, ravioli, gnocchi, and other classics of Italian cuisine.
Whether you are looking for authentic Italian food in San Francisco, a welcoming Italian restaurant in Long Beach, or handmade Italian food in Chicago, IHC offers simple, generous dishes created to be shared.
Our Long Beach and Chicago locations also host hands-on pasta classes and guided Italian wine tastings on selected dates. These experiences offer another way to discover the traditions, regions, and flavors of Italy.
Explore our menu, find your nearest location, and discover our fresh pasta and Italian wine experiences.
Buon Ferragosto from The Italian Homemade Company!