Italian Summer: traditions, flavors, and rituals of a beloved season

Sun, culture, and slow living: the essence of Italian summer 

While the rest of the world slows down, summer in Italy comes alive with color, flavor, and tradition. From packed beaches and village festivals to watermelon picnics and lazy afternoon siestas, summer in Italy is more than just a season—it’s a lifestyle. 

And at Istituto Italiano Scuola, we’re getting ready to bring it all to life. Our Summer Term starts July 14, and we’re inviting you to dive into the language and culture of Italy—just in time to celebrate its most iconic season. 

1. Ferragosto: the heartbeat of Italian summer 

No Italian summer is complete without Ferragosto, celebrated on August 15th. This holiday, rooted in ancient Roman times (Feriae Augusti), evolved into a Catholic feast and later became a cornerstone of modern Italian vacation culture. 

Today, Ferragosto is all about: 

• Family lunches (often featuring roast meats or lasagna, even in the heat!) 

• Beach gatherings, fireworks, and lively street celebrations 

• A symbolic “peak” of summer where everything slows down—even major cities empty out 

Many Italians plan their entire summer around Ferragosto—if you’re in Italy mid-August, expect full beaches, closed shops, and open hearts. 

2. Al mare: understanding Italian beach culture 

Italians take their beach days seriously. Whether on the Amalfi Coast or in a tiny Puglian cove, summer is synonymous with “andare al mare” (going to the sea). 

Some beach culture basics: 

• Lido vs spiaggia libera: Lido = paid beach with umbrella, chair, showers, café. Spiaggia libera = free, bring your own gear. 

• Must-haves: Sunscreen, racchettoni (beach paddleball), cold drinks, a newspaper, and pennichella (the post-lunch nap). 

From morning espresso at the beach bar to watching the sunset over the waves, the beach isn’t just a destination—it’s a daily ritual. 

3. What Italians eat in summer 

In summer, the Italian table lightens up—but never loses its flair. Meals are cooler, simpler, and often shared outdoors. 

Typical Italian summer dishes include: 

• Prosciutto e melone (cured ham with sweet melon) 

• Insalata di riso (Italian-style rice salad with veggies and tuna) 

• Caprese salad with mozzarella and tomatoes 

• Granita and gelato for refreshing dessert moments 

Even pasta joins the party—with cold dishes like pasta fredda dressed in olive oil, vegetables, or seafood. The rule? Keep it fresh, seasonal, and delicious. 

4. Summer festivals: food, music, and tradition 

Italian summer is alive with festivals big and small. Every village seems to have a celebration—from religious feasts to food sagre to open-air concerts. 

Some highlights include: 

• Sagre gastronomiche: celebrating truffles, wild boar, lemons, seafood—you name it. 

• Music and theater festivals: jazz in Umbria, opera in Verona, cinema under the stars in Rome. 

• Historical reenactments: medieval markets, costumed parades, castle sieges, and firework spectacles. 

Summer is when Italy’s local culture steps onto the stage, often quite literally. 

5. Expressions and vocabulary of the Italian summer 

Every season has its language, and summer in Italy brings with it a colorful set of expressions. 

Fun summer phrases and words: 

• “Fa un caldo che si muore!” – It’s so hot I could die! 

• “Andare in ferie” – To go on vacation (paid time off) 

• “Secchiello e paletta” – Bucket and spade (a beach day essential for kids) 

• “Aperitivo al tramonto” – Sunset aperitif 

Even the language slows down in summer—expect more drawn-out vowels, hand fans, and long goodbyes in the sun. 

Join us for the Summer Term at IIS 

Summer is the perfect season to bring Italy into your life—and with the Summer Term at Istituto Italiano Scuola starting July 14, you can do just that. 

Whether you’re heading to Italy or just dreaming about it, our classes will: 

• Boost your confidence in Italian conversation 

• Explore seasonal expressions and cultural references 
• Celebrate the tastes, sounds, and rhythms of the Italian summer 

Let this summer be your gateway to deeper cultural discovery and connection.
Explore our Summer Term classes and enroll today!