Every June, Lake Como hosts its most spectacular celebration: the Sagra di San Giovanni, often called the Festa di San Giovanni. The heart of the event is a fireworks display over the tiny Isola Comacina, near the village of Ossuccio in the Tremezzina area, roughly 20 kilometers from the city of Como. For visitors expecting the show to take place in Como itself, the setting on the western branch of the lake is a pleasant surprise: the natural amphitheater formed by the surrounding mountains offers a dramatic backdrop.
The festival, which traditionally inaugurates the tourist season for the Centro Lario area, blends history, faith, and folklore. While the exact program changes from year to year, the core is a two-day event on the last weekend of June: a Saturday night of fireworks and symbolic fire, followed by a Sunday procession. If you are planning a trip, it is worth understanding what to expect and where to position yourself for the best view, whether on shore or aboard a boat.
What Is the Sagra di San Giovanni? History and the symbolic burning of Isola Comacina
The Sagra di San Giovanni is one of the oldest and most beloved traditions on Lake Como, with roots in a medieval conflict. In 1169, during a war between Como and Milan, the island of Comacina, which sided with Milan, was invaded and razed to the ground by Comaschi forces allied with Frederick Barbarossa. The island was never repopulated; its survivors fled to Varenna, which they called 'insula nova'.
Today, the festival reenacts that destruction not with real flames but with a spectacular fireworks-and-music show that illuminates the island, evoking the 'Zoca de l'Oli' (the oil basin) in a burst of light and color. The event also honors Saint John the Baptist, the island's patron saint, blending religious devotion with local folklore. The guide on mylakecomo describes the festival as the oldest manifestation of Lake Como for tradition, art, faith, and folklore, and highlights its role in opening the tourist season for the Centro Lario area.
When Does the Sagra di San Giovanni Take Place? Last Weekend of June
The Sagra di San Giovanni is held on the last weekend of June every year. The 2026 edition took place on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28, as confirmed by the listing on mylakecomo. As of September 2026, dates for the next edition have not yet been officially announced; based on tradition, travelers can expect the event to fall on the final weekend of June, but it is wise to check the website of the Comune di Tremezzina for confirmation.
When planning your visit, keep in mind that the weekend is not just about the fireworks; it is a full cultural immersion. The event usually begins with a food-and-dance evening in the municipal park of Ossuccio on Saturday, starting around 19:00, followed by the main fireworks at around 22:30. Sunday features a solemn procession on the island and another evening of gastronomy and dancing.
The Fireworks Display: What to Expect on Saturday Night
The fireworks show on Saturday night is the main draw, often described as the most famous fireworks on Lake Como. According to Lake Como Travel Tips, thousands of people gather along the western shore of the lake to witness the display, which includes both the fireworks and a symbolic burning of Isola Comacina. The show is carefully synchronized with music, creating a multi-sensory experience that lasts about 20 minutes, although the exact duration can vary.
The spectacle begins with the island suddenly illuminated by dramatic lighting, followed by cascades of fireworks reflecting on the water. The effect is heightened by the surrounding mountains, which act as a natural amphitheater, magnifying the sound and visuals. For many locals, this is the unofficial start of summer, a moment when the entire community comes together to celebrate its heritage.
Sunday's Procession and Other Weekend Events
Sunday brings a more solemn side of the festival. A traditional procession takes place on Isola Comacina, with participants in historical costumes, honoring the island's patron saint, John the Baptist. This religious ceremony is followed by a regatta of 'lucie', the historic wooden boats of Lake Como, which add a lively, competitive element to the day.
Both Saturday and Sunday also feature gastronomic evenings, where visitors can sample local dishes and wines. These events are organized in collaboration with the local tourist association and are a great way to immerse yourself in the area's culinary culture. The program is typically published a few weeks before the festival, so check the official sources for the latest schedule.
Where to Watch the Fireworks from Shore: The Western Shore Near Ossuccio
For those who prefer to stay on solid ground, the western shore of the lake offers the most direct and accessible viewpoint. According to Lake Como Travel Tips, people gather along the western shore near Ossuccio to get a clear view of the island. The area around the municipal park in Ossuccio is a popular spot, especially as it hosts the pre-fireworks festivities.
However, the exact public viewpoints are not officially designated, so it is best to arrive early to claim a good position. The natural amphitheater setting means that many spots along the shore provide unobstructed views, but the island itself is relatively small, and the fireworks are launched from its perimeter. For those willing to walk or cycle, the scenic road along the lake offers numerous pull-offs, but be prepared for crowds.
Watching from a Boat on the Lake: The Best Way to Experience the Show
Watching the fireworks from the water is an unforgettable experience. Hundreds of boats gather in the bay in front of Isola Comacina, creating a floating audience. You can bring your own boat or join an organized tour. One premium option is offered by Villa d'Este, the historic hotel in Cernobbio, which runs a private wooden boat tour that includes a cruise past iconic villas before anchoring near the island for the show. The 2026 tour started at 21:00 from Villa d'Este and included champagne and finger food, with the fireworks at 22:30. The shared experience cost €700 per person, and a private charter of the entire boat was €4,000 for up to six guests. These were prices for the 2026 edition; check the current program for availability and rates.
If you are booking a boat tour, do so well in advance, as these experiences sell out quickly. Alternatively, you can rent a small boat for the day, but ensure you anchor at a safe distance and follow local regulations. Boats typically begin to gather in the early evening, so arriving early ensures a good spot without obstructing the view of others.
How to Reach Ossuccio and the Tremezzina from Como and Other Towns
Ossuccio is located in the Tremezzina area, on the western shore of Lake Como, about 20 kilometers north of the city of Como. The most scenic way to arrive is by ferry from Como, which offers stunning views of the lake and villas. From other towns like Bellagio or Varenna, you can take a ferry to the nearby landing stages such as Tremezzo or Lenno, which are a short bus ride or walk from Ossuccio.
If you prefer to drive, the SS340 Regina state road runs along the western shore and connects Como to Ossuccio, but be prepared for heavy traffic on the festival day; parking is limited, and many roads are closed to non-residents. It is advisable to use public transport or park in Como and take the ferry, which drops you directly at Ossuccio's landing stage. Check the ferry schedules in advance, as late-night return services may be limited after fireworks.
Planning Your Weekend: Combining the Festival with Villas and Other Lake Como Attractions
The Sagra di San Giovanni is a fantastic reason to visit the Tremezzina, but you can easily turn it into a full weekend of exploration. The area is home to two of Lake Como's most famous villas: Villa del Balbianello, located in Lenno, and Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, both of which are within walking distance or a short ferry ride from Ossuccio. Visiting these gardens and historic interiors adds cultural depth to your trip.
If you are interested in other seasonal happenings on the lake, you might extend your journey to include the Palio del Baradello in Como, a medieval reenactment that often takes place later in the summer. Combining the fireworks with a wider itinerary lets you experience the lake's rich festival culture beyond the final weekend of June.
Practical Tips for Attending: Arrive Early, Bring Layers, and Book Boat Tours in Advance
To make the most of the festival, arrive early: the fireworks are the climax of the evening, but the atmosphere builds throughout the day. If you are not on a boat, bring a blanket or folding chair to stake out your spot on the shore, and pack layers. Even in late June, the lake breeze can be cool after sunset, so a light jacket is indispensable.
For those considering a boat tour, booking in advance is not just recommended; it is essential. Options like that offered by Villa d'Este sell out weeks in advance, and independent boat rentals require time for coordination. Also, plan your post-show transport: how to return to your accommodation, whether by car, taxi, or ferry, and verify that the schedules align.
Plan Your Visit
The Sagra di San Giovanni is more than just a fireworks display; it is a deep dive into Lake Como's history and community life. Whether you watch from the natural amphitheater of the western shore or from the deck of a boat bobbing in the bay, the sight of Isola Comacina illuminated against the night sky is unforgettable.
To stay on top of the festival details, check the official website of the Comune di Tremezzina, and consider reaching out to local tourism offices for the latest program. As with many seasonal events, the key to a smooth visit is planning well in advance, especially if you want a prime spot or a boat tour. For more ideas on what to do around the lake during summer, explore our guide to Lake Como summer festivals and regattas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Festa di San Giovanni on Lake Como?
The Festa di San Giovanni, also known as the Sagra di San Giovanni, is a traditional festival held on the last weekend of June near Isola Comacina in Ossuccio, Tremezzina. It celebrates the history of the island with a fireworks show, symbolic burning, and religious processions.
When are the San Giovanni fireworks on Lake Como?
The fireworks take place on the Saturday of the last weekend of June, typically starting around 22:30. In 2026, the event was held on June 27 and 28. Dates for the next edition are usually confirmed by the Comune di Tremezzina a few months in advance.
Where do the San Giovanni fireworks take place?
The fireworks take place over Isola Comacina, a small island near the village of Ossuccio in the Tremezzina area, on the western branch of Lake Como, about 20 kilometers from the city of Como.
How can I watch the fireworks from a boat?
You can watch from your own boat or join an organized tour. Many private companies offer evening cruises that anchor near the island for the show. For a premium experience, Villa d'Este in Cernobbio offered a wooden boat tour in 2026 with champagne and finger food; check their official site for current options.