In Italy, this is the great summer festival. There is not a single household in which August 15th is not celebrated with good food and good wine.
From ancient Roman tradition to the Catholic celebration
The word Ferragosto comes from the ancient Feriae Augusti, a holiday that was celebrated in ancient Rome. The holiday was in honor of Emperor Augustus (who also gave his name to the month). The Catholic Church later established the feast of the Assumption of Mary, or the moment when Mary was received into heaven.
