Ferragosto: how to prepare for the best holiday of summer

"What do you do for Ferragosto? That is the most popular question during the summer, and the one that we never know how to respond to. I imagine that, this year, it will be the same story as always. You hesitate and hesitate, and then, in the end, everything is organised at the last minute. Yet, have you ever wondered about its origin and why it is a reason for celebration for us? It seems as though there is an aura of mystery around this term. Which is why ErasmusU has created a complete article around it. A full-rounded journey to discover its significance. And, even more important, to celebrate the best Ferragosto parties ever! Are you ready?

The meaning of Ferragosto

Something we have all asked ourselves at least once in our lives. But now the time has come to resolve this dilemma: what is the meaning of Ferragosto?

"Auguri di Ferragosto" (good wishes for Ferragosto)

Ferragosto derives from the term Feriae Augusti, which in Latin means "Augustus rest". But why is it called this?

This day was created by Emperor Augustus of Rome in 18 BC.

This festivity was born to celebrate the end of the agricultural work year. As a matter of fact, in August he would give thanks to Conso, the God of the earth and of fertility. And the whole month was synonymous with rest from the fatigue of working in the fields, as well as synonymous with "celebrating". For example, events such as horse races and animal processions were recurrent. In addition, the workers made the "auguri di ferragosto". In return, they received a bonus from their masters. This festival was very important: it was the only occassion in which slaves and masters would mix.

In ancient times it was celebrated on the 1st of August (although it lasted almost all month) and now? When do they celebrate Ferragosto? And again, if its origins are so ancient, what are the reasons for us to continue celebrating it?

Ferragosto as a religious celebration

The reasons why it is considered a public holiday have changed over the years. If this festival was born as a pagan ceremony, by 7 AD it had changed. The Church, in fact, decided to make it coincide with the day of the Assumption of Mary. In doing so, both parties would be celebrated on the 15th of August.

Why Ferragosto is celebrated

The reason why this day is synonymous with trips out of town, however, goes back to another period. I am talking about fascism, which gave Italians an input to travel. In what way? By train. The "popular trains of Ferragosto". The regime, in fact, began to sell heavily discounted tickets. Therefore, from 13th August to 15th August, even the poorest had the opportunity to travel around. Anyone could travel to different Italian cities, go to the beach or reach the mountains. The offer could be purchased in two ways. You could leave for a day, or for 3 days and cover a maximum of 200 km of ground. However, food was not included. That's when the tradition of packed lunches was born.

When is Ferragosto?

We understood, therefore, that this festival is celebrated on the 15th day of August of every year. But when is Ferragosto in 2019? In 2018 it was a Wednesday, this year we are luckier: it falls on a Thursday. Therefore, if you're able to get the day off from work on Friday, it's perfect! From Thursday 15th August 2019 to Sunday 18th August, you will have four days to switch off. But what do you do on the 15th of August and, above all, where can you go? Whether for one day or for four, you will have a lot to organise. Which is why ErasmusU aims to simplify life. Have a look at our list of ideas!

Where to go for Ferragosto

Before anything else, we already know that you can spend your time at the sea or in the mountains. Not only that, but you could also spend it in a garden with friends or discovering a city full of culture. The are few ingredients for this festival, but they are essential. A special location and the right company. Add good food and music and you're set. So sit down with friends or family and get a few ideas together.

Are you among those who love the mountains? Then you could go for a trip and then you could stop to have a picnic. Why not? Rent a cabin with friends and have a barbecue! It is always pleasant to go somewhere cool, especially on a hot day. Or, you could enjoy the outdoors and have lunch in a mountain cottage! Book and taste the typical products of the Italian mountains. Order a good wine and bring a guitar, fun will be guaranteed. Take inspiration: take a look at this Erasmusu post on the Ferragosto in the mountains. In the Austrian mountains, or not. Allow yourself to be carried away by the magic of this special day.

And if you prefer the beach? Even better! August 15th has always made us want to have water balloon fights. Every year TV news stations broadcast images of Italian beaches. They are very crowded and everyone plays games and jumps into the sea. There are even those who bring a tent and sleep there. So that they can stargaze and enjoy this holiday to its fullest.

Ferragosto 2019 in Sicily

For this situation, you should check the flights going to the south of Italy. Spending 15th August in Sicily could be the winning idea. You will be spoilt for choice because each place organises unmissable events. Why don't you go to Marzamemi, in the province of Syracuse? It is one of the most popular destinations for this holiday. During the day you can swim in the sea and eat some local specialties. Meanwhile during the evening, direct yourself towards the main square. All you have to do is remove your flip-flops and let loose to the beat of the music playing at that time.

However, there are also those who cannot travel far. Or better, those that don't want to risk getting stuck in traffic. Because, if you don't know, Italians invade the roads on the 15th of August. In that case, choose a friend who doesn't mind hosting everyone. All you need is a garden and some speakers for the music. Everyone can bring something to eat and drink. We are now in 2019 and so organising ourselves is anything but difficult. Create a group on Whatsapp, make a list and bring some board games.

If you are the adventurous type, visit the websites of some low cost airlines. In this way, you can visit some European treasures rich in history and culture. Let's say your dream this year is to spend Ferragosto in Spain. Taking a plane is not the only option, why not travel by Flixbus? By bus or by plane, it's not important. Pack a travel guide and go.

What to do on Ferragosto

It can be said that where to go and what to do go hand in hand. I mean, what to do on the 15th of August, 2019 depends largely on the end goal you choose. As we have seen, the mountains lends itself perfectly to excursions. Or to a picnic in the middle of nature, and to a lunch in a mountain shack with friends. Maybe you could relax in the sun with some music and a few glasses of wine.

On the contrary, the beach implies a swim in the sea, maybe a fish lunch. A few tranquil walks along the sand. Additionally, fun water games are often organised, and a good cold beer is never far.

On the other hand, a cultural visit means wandering around here and there to discover the history of a city. Every year the list of events for Ferragosto changes and the offers are very numerous. Once you've chosen your destination, look online for the list of concerts on 15th August, if you love music. Who knows, you could listen to your favorite artist on the beach under the moonlight. Or, why not, in a majestic square in some charming Italian city.

Ferragosto Concert

If you want to go to an exclusive event, go to Piemonte! This year, the Ferragosto Concert will be in a locality in the region to the north. The evening will be transmitted through Rai3 and it was host big artists from the opera. So, if you're a fan of this music genre, you cannot miss it. Imagine taking a trip through the music, surrounded by the Piedmontese mountains. There is nothing more exciting.

Alternatively, if you are in the north and you like rock... then head towards Lignano Sabbiadoro. The Offspring concert is waiting for you at The Sunset Festival held on 15th August.

On the same day, if you're in Sardinia or plan to go there on holiday, don't miss Luis Fonsi. The lovers of reggaeton will go crazy for the songs of this beautiful musician.

If you instead stay at home, the main problem will be different: what you will eat in Ferragosto.

Ferragosto Lunch

The respectable 15th August must include a home barbecue with friends! Everyone, will at least once in their life celebrate in this way. Between grilled polenta and grilled meat. You'll need to think about the shopping, who buys what and who cooks. And then drinks, napkins, cutlery and so on and so forth. But don't despair, it's easier than expected.

In the end, the important thing is to be with company, so I wouldn't opt for complicated dishes. If you have the chance to have a barbecue, you just need to buy meat. Add a few drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and some appetizers, like chips. If you have a good pastry chef in your group of friends, you're in luck! You could ask them to prepare a dessert.

In the off chance that you don't have a grill, there are many alternatives. You can organise, and everyone coming brings something. Organise a list divided into "appetisers", "first-course", "second-course", "desserts" and "drinks". As a main course you could make pasta or a risotto; they are tasty easy to make. Add the ingredients you like best: cherry tomatoes, tuna, mozzarella, capers... And create a perfect first course for a hot August day. Then prepare a savoury tart as a main meal, which are healthy and light. So you can save a bit of room for dessert.

These menus are ideal for young company, as they are less tied to tradition. However, reading this article one might think that we had forgotten something. In fact, in many areas of Italy there is a custom of eating specific dishes. An example is the roasted pigeon. If you are from Piacenza you would have immediately thought of "bomba di riso" (rice bomb) with pigeon. (A dome of baked rice with pigeon meat). If you are instead Sicilian your table will never miss the "gelu di muluna" (mulberry jelly). It is a spoon dessert decorated with lemon leaves and jasmine flowers.

In short, whether you follow the traditions of your country or not, one thing is certain. You will be cooking mouth-watering dishes.

Curiosity around Ferragosto

Speaking of tradition, it's impossible to not mention the Ferragosto celebration in Andorno Micca. What is that? It is a festival of the town of Andorno Micca (Biella province) that, every year, relives this festival as it would have been in the past. A day of art, entertainment and good food. If you go, try "agnolotto", a typical Piedmontese filled pasta.

By the way, did you know that The Palio of Siena is extremely connected to the 15th of August? The traditional horse races from under Augustus' rule are still organised today, unchanged. The Palio is a competition between the Contradas of the city, which combines 2 elements. That of the Roman pagan era under Augustus, with regard to the races, and that of religion with regard to the Assumption of Mary, who is the declared patron saint of the city. Not surprisingly, it takes place in mid-August and entertains the public, some of which are even international, every year.

However, so far we have talked only about Italy. Given its origins, the festival is celebrated only by us. But what happens on this date in the rest of the world?

The nations that celebrate Ferragosto

Someone is celebrating 15th August either in Europe or in another part of the world. But not always for the same reason! The reasons could be religious, or they could not be. Here are some examples. In Ireland, a Catholic country, 15th August is the day for the celebration of the Assumption of Mary. The same happens in Spain, in Elche and Seville. These places all celebrate a good religious Ferragosto. In India, however, it is their Independence Day from England. And in Chine, it is the Qixi Festival, which celebrates love.

Ferragosto storms

It's been a few years since it rained on the 15th of August. But if it does, you'll need to think of some alternative activities to pass the time and still have a fun day. Karaoke, board games or card games... or why not have a scavenger hunt! Read our article on the best games to play when spending a day together (article currently in Italian). I am sure that you will be able to have an unforgettable day!

Do you want to have a nice mid-August holiday but you have to leave for Erasmus and are you looking for accommodation? Do not fear, we can help you! Erasmusu allows you to choose from hundreds of spacious rooms, studios , university residences and flats, among which you will surely find your ideal home, maybe even before arriving in the city.

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