As summer draws to a close, Ancona and its residents are preparing to celebrate one of the city’s most anticipated events: the Festa del Mare. This traditional festival returns once again to fill the waterfront with music, culture, flavours, and fireworks, bringing together locals and visitors alike.

The 2024 edition of the Festa del Mare will open on Saturday, August 31, at the Passetto Lakes from 6:00 p.m. onwards. The opening ceremony will feature a performance by athletes from ASD Ancona Skating, followed by a celebration of traditional Doric cuisine — from local fish to clams.
In Piazza Cavour, visitors will find street food kiosks serving local specialties, including the legendary stoccafisso all’anconetana, prepared by the Accademia dello Stoccafisso, which will host two tasting stands. Meanwhile, the “Percorsi di Gusto” (Taste Trails) will allow visitors to discover signature dishes from some of the most renowned restaurants in the historic centre.

Complementing the culinary offering are artisan markets spread across Piazza Cavour and the Passetto area. The first will be a marine-themed market curated by Mercatini Antiquari, while the second, managed by My Love Eventi, will feature a general selection of goods and crafts.

The opening night will close with a free concert by Raf, held at the foot of the Monumento ai Caduti, starting at 9:45 p.m.

The festival continues on Sunday, September 1, beginning at 9:00 a.m. with a Holy Mass at the Duomo, celebrated by Archbishop Angelo Spina, followed by the traditional sea procession.
In the afternoon, at 6:30 p.m., Piazza Cavour will host a special talk with three-time Oscar winner Dante Ferretti, the renowned set and costume designer from the Marche region, joined by writer and screenwriter David Miliozzi.

At the Old Port, visitors can enjoy seafood aperitifs in street-food style and attend the talk show “Gente di Mare”, dedicated to the evolution of traditional fishing life.
Finally, at 10:30 p.m., the evening will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display over Molo Rizzo.

For parking, the Municipality advises that paid lots at Cialdini and Traiano will remain open for entry until midnight, and Degli Archi until 9:00 p.m. (with 24-hour exit).
Two free shuttle buses will also operate from 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 31.
👉 Click here to view shuttle routes and schedules.