Gaeta Yacht Med Festival

At the end of April each year the town of Gaeta holds a week-long event named the Gaeta Yacht Med Festival.  The festival focuses on the local economy of the sea, sailing, fishing, together with the environment, culture and tourism. Gaeta has a long maritime history and has long been a busy trading port. The main produce to be exported from Gaeta are table olives, which are grown on the local hillsides of Itri, but are more commonly known as Gaeta Olives.

Lining the seafront boulevard of Lungomare Giovanni Caboto that leads to historic Medieval Quarter of Gaeta and Punto Stendardo, there are an array of stalls promoting all things maritime and nautical. Of course there is always an selection of classy boats on show, with prices to match. The Guardia di Finanza often open their training ship to the public.

The Seafront Lungo Mare Giovanni Caboto

Models and Replicas of Old Wooden Ships

Exhibition of Maritime History

Craft Stalls

There are also many stalls promoting local crafts such as ceramics and stramme work, and also stalls selling local produce and gastronomy. Other booths represent local natural parks in the area of Latina and Lazio and also the environment.

Food Stalls Selling Local Delicacies

There are many types of entertainment such rowing competitions, demonstrations by teams of flag throwers dressed in Medieval costumes (known as sbandieratori) and colourful troops of majorettes. There are also theatrical performances, poetry readings and musical concerts to suit all tastes. Finally on the last night the festival culminates in an impressive firework display.

Entertainment