Annual events in the Argentario
EASTER
Procession and blessing of the sea: On Easter Sunday, in Porto Santo Stefano, a long procession walks through the historic center at sunrise. The statue of Christ is carried up to the seashore where a ritual takes place and the sailors respond to the blessing by ringing the bells of the docked boats.
Pasquavela: this historic regatta is organized by Yacht Club Santo Stefano, and is disputed during Easter weekend in the waters in front of Porto Santo Stefano.
MAY
San Biagio: Orbetello celebrates the patron saint with the Eel Festival, a race of small boats in the lagoon, and small markets in the historic center.
JUNE
Sant’Erasmo: On 2nd of June, Porto Ercole celebrates its patron saint with a firework show on the sea. The event is preceded by concerts, parades and regattas.
JULY/AUGUST
CIMA – Concerts in Monte Argentario: A series of concerts in beautiful locations around Monte Argentario, between the end of July and the first days of August.
AUGUST
Palio Marinaro dell’Argentario: On 15 August, Porto Santo Stefano celebrates a historic boat race during which its 4 neighborhoods (Croce, Fortezza, Pilarella and Valle) compete for 4000 metres. At the end, the celebrations take place with a refreshing plunge in the sea.
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER
Gustatus – The sense of taste: Wine and food festival that celebrates local drinks and dishes from the Maremma and Tuscany. It takes place in Orbetello at the end of October and beginning of November.
DECEMBER
Living Nativity Scenes: During the Christmas period, Porto Ercole hosts a living creche in its historic center, with the participation of about 200 people who recreate the Nativity.