Sagra del Bagnun 2026 — Riva Trigoso’s Anchovy Stew Festival

For one weekend each July, the fishing village of Riva Trigoso — part of the larger Sestri Levante municipality — celebrates its maritime heritage with the Sagra del Bagnun, a food festival dedicated entirely to one dish: the humble, delicious anchovy stew that Ligurian fishermen have been making for centuries.

What Is Bagnun?

Bagnun (pronounced “ban-YOON”) is the quintessential dish of the Ligurian seafaring tradition. Its name comes from the Ligurian word for “stew” or “bath,” and the recipe is deceptively simple: fresh anchovies (acciughe, the star ingredient), tomatoes, onions, garlic, white wine, and a generous pour of extra virgin olive oil, all slowly simmered together on the fishing boats themselves while at sea. Served with toasted bread or crispy gallette del marinaio (sailors’ hardtack biscuits), it was a warm, nourishing meal that could be made with the day’s unsold catch.

In recent years, the acciughe del Mar Ligure have earned IGP status (Protected Geographical Indication), a testament to the quality and tradition of Ligurian anchovy fishing. The Sagra del Bagnun is the best place to taste them at their freshest, prepared in enormous copper cauldrons by local volunteers following recipes passed down through generations.

The Festival Weekend

Held on the penultimate weekend of July (July 25–26, 2026), the sagra takes over the waterfront of Riva Trigoso’s western beach (Riva Ponente). Long communal tables are set up under canopies, and the air fills with the aroma of simmering bagnun. For a modest price (typically €10–15 for a full plate with wine), you get a generous serving of the stew, grilled anchovies, local wine, and dessert.

Beyond the food, the festival features live music, dancing, and a convivial atmosphere that feels more like a village party than a commercial event. The nearby Fincantieri shipyard, where sections of Italy’s naval vessels are built, is a reminder that Riva Trigoso is a working maritime community — this isn’t a theme park, it’s the real thing.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Riva Trigoso station is one stop beyond Sestri Levante on the Genoa–La Spezia line. From Sestri Levante, it’s a 30-minute walk along the scenic coastal path, or a 5-minute train ride. The festival area is steps from the station.
• Arrive early: The evening session (from 19:00) is the most popular. Tables fill quickly, so come early or be prepared to wait for a seat.
• Combine with: The Barcarolata boat parade takes place the very next day (July 26) in Sestri Levante — an ideal weekend pairing. The Cinque Terre villages are 30 minutes by train.
• Admission: Free entry; food and wine purchased on site.