August 22, 2026 – August 23, 2026 · Navelli (AQ)
Experience the 48th edition of the Sagra dei Ceci e dello Zafferano, a celebration of Navelli's finest food and wine. This event, recognized as a 'Sagra di Qualità' (Quality Festival), highlights local delicacies like Slow Food Presidium Chickpeas and L'Aquila DOP Saffron, alongside popular Italian street food such as arrosticini and porchetta. The festival also features the Palio degli Asini (Donkey Race), live music, and entertainment for all ages, with free admission.
Indulge in the authentic flavors of Navelli with local specialties like the renowned Navelli Chickpeas and L'Aquila DOP Saffron. Complement your meal with classic Italian favorites such as savory arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers) and succulent porchetta (roasted pork). Quench your thirst with a selection of local wines and beers, and don't forget to try the delicious traditional desserts.
📅 Saturday, August 22, 2026 ⏰ 09:30 AM: Join the first edition of the ZAFFE-RUN, a 10 km competitive and non-competitive race winding through the village streets. ⏰ 10:00 AM: The 'Artigianato e Creatività' craft market opens. ⏰ 12:30 PM: Food stands open for lunch. ⏰ 06:00 PM: Food stands reopen for evening dining. ⏰ 09:30 PM: Enjoy a live performance by the Sara e Sogno Mediterraneo orchestra. ⏰ 12:00 AM: Dance the night away at the 'Discoteca sotto le stelle' (Disco under the stars). 📅 Sunday, August 23, 2026 ⏰ 10:00 AM: The 'Artigianato e Creatività' craft market continues. ⏰ 10:30 AM: Participate in an orienteering activity to discover the charming village. ⏰ 12:00 PM: Attend Holy Mass at the Church of San Sebastiano. ⏰ 12:30 PM: Food stands open for lunch. ⏰ 05:00 PM: Witness the historical parade for the 44th Palio degli Asini, starting from the MAP area, featuring the Sbandieratori di Castel Madama and the Gruppo Storico Certame della Contea di Popoli. ⏰ 06:00 PM: The 44th Palio degli Asini race takes place. ⏰ 06:00 PM: Food stands reopen for evening dining. ⏰ 09:30 PM: Enjoy a musical show with the Bulli & Pupi orchestra. ⏰ 12:00 AM: 'Discoteca sotto le stelle' continues the fun.