15 Aug 2014 Ferragosto: A National Holiday in Italy

A treasured national holiday in Italy, the 15th August holiday known as “Ferragosto” hails the unofficial start of the Italian vacation season. Italians from the interior flock to coastal resorts to frolic in the surf and to escape the summer's heat.

Ferragosto traditions include celebrations, festivals, and parades. Events are held in various parts of the country to mark the holiday, which coincides with the religious Assumption Day in Italy. Ferragosto traditions date back to ancient times, tied to religious and seasonal agricultural commemorations that feted peace, prosperity, growth and fertility.