Sagra dell’Anguilla

In Comacchio, eel is far more than a culinary speciality. It is one of the deepest symbols of the bond between the town and its Valli, the lagoons that surround it: a bond made of fishing, hard work, gestures handed down through generations and recipes that still tell the story of the area.

It is from this relationship that the Sagra dell'Anguilla (Eel Festival) was born, one of the most eagerly awaited events of Comacchio's autumn. Every year, between the end of September and the beginning of October, the historic centre comes alive with food stalls, markets, shows, concerts, exhibitions, cultural events and excursions, becoming a vibrant, open-air portrait of the town and its traditions.

Eel in the culinary tradition

Comacchio's bond with eel inevitably finds its way to the table. Over the centuries, traditional cuisine has developed countless recipes for this fish, from grilled eel with polenta to brodetto (fish stew), as well as simpler dishes born of everyday home cooking.

One of the emblematic places of this tradition is the Manifattura dei Marinati, where the ancient method of processing eel is still preserved. In the Sala dei Fuochi (Hall of Fires), theeel pieces (morelli) are threaded onto long skewers and roasted close to the flames of the great wood-burning fireplaces. Once cooked, the fish is left to cool for 12 hours, then immersed in the traditional marinade of vinegar, salt, water and bay leaf. An age-old ritual that remains part of the town's culinary identity today.

A festival to enjoy inside and outside the historic centre

During the Sagra, Comacchiobecomes a journey through flavours, culture and traditions. The streets of the centre fill with stalls, cooking shows, concerts, exhibitions, book presentations and events for all ages. But the festivities don't stop at the bridges and canals.

On the festival weekends you can also join excursions in the Valli di Comacchio by boat, bike, canoe or on foot, as well as guided tours of the town and archaeological itineraries.

It is the best way to go beyond the plate and discover the landscape from which this tradition was born.

Sagra dell'Anguilla 2026

In 2026 the Sagra returns under the title "Sorella Anguilla, Fratello Sale" ("Sister Eel, Brother Salt") on the weekends of 26–27 September, 3–4 October and 10–11 October.

Three weekends of food and wine, culture, nature, entertainment and tradition, to discover Comacchio at one of the most characteristic times of the year. Discover the full programme of the Sagra dell'Anguilla 2026 and mark the events and experiences you don't want to miss.