Ferragosto is one of the most eagerly anticipated and widely celebrated holidays in Italy, falling right in the middle of the summer holidays for most Italians. To understand its origins, one must delve deep into the past. Let’s start with the name: Ferragosto derives from the Latin term “feriae Augusti,” meaning “the rest of Augustus.” It was the Roman Emperor Augustus who, in 18 BC, established a period of celebration in August, named after him. This period coincided with the end of the harvest and a break from agricultural labor, in honor of the god Consus, the protector of granaries and supplies.
From August 1 to 15, the people could also take a break from their farm work. During this time, various festivities were organized, including performances, festivals, and especially horse races. It is no coincidence that the Palio of the Assumption, also known as the Palio of Siena, takes place precisely on August 16. Thus, the holiday has pagan origins.
After the triumph of Christianity across Europe, the holiday was renamed to the Assumption of Mary (i.e., the moment when the Virgin Mary ascends to heaven with soul and body) because the date coincides with this Catholic feast. Even today, the Day of the Assumption is officially celebrated in Italy. Previously, in honor of the Virgin, spectacular nocturnal processions with torches and lights were organized. Nowadays, in many areas of Italy, the night is illuminated by fireworks.
Being a religious occasion, Ferragosto is a national holiday in most Catholic-majority European countries. Besides Italy, the day is also a holiday in France, Spain, and Portugal, for example, while in Switzerland and Germany, only certain regions recognize it as such. Many countries in Central and South America also celebrate August 15, such as Chile, Venezuela, Costa Rica, and Colombia. In India, this day is marked by a special coincidence: the entire country celebrates Independence Day, achieved on this date in 1947.
