Emilia Romagna Castles

On Thursday 12 June 2025, from 8.30 p.m. to around midnight in Piazzale del Porto (Piazzale De Gasperi), the 61st edition of the 'Festa della Rustida' will take place, the event that every year celebrates the deep bond between Riccione and its guests.

The 'Festa della Rustida' has its roots in an episode that has marked the history of the city: on 8 June 1964, a violent storm devastated Riccione's beach, causing serious damage to beach facilities. It was on that occasion that the city's guests, in a spontaneous gesture of great solidarity, stood by the lifeguards to help with the reconstruction, which was almost immediate. Every year since then, Riccione remembers and celebrates that moment with a festival dedicated to tourists.

Over time, the event has taken on different names - from "Festa del Turista" to "Festa del Bagnino" - but for everyone it is known simply as la Rustida, so much so that it has become an identity symbol for residents and visitors alike. A value that has also been recognised by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities, which has included the event in the General Catalogue of Cultural Heritage within the section dedicated to demoethnoanthropological heritage, with the official name: 'Festa della Rustida in honour of tourists: memories of the storm of 8 June 1964'.

The 61st edition is organised by the Riccione Lifeguard Cooperative, which has always promoted the event, in collaboration with the Municipality of Riccione, the lifeguards of the Association for the Unesco candidacy, and with the support of the historic partner Riccione Piadina.

More than 1,000 piadina and 200 kilos of grilled sardines, prepared directly by the lifeguards, will be distributed free of charge during the evening. Riccione Piadina will also offer piadina and Nutella, again free of charge. With a 5 euro donation to the association, or by purchasing directly at the cash desk, you will receive the traditional mug, which will entitle you to free wine and beer until you run out.

Musical entertainment will be provided by Mauro Forbicini's Studjo, and the evening will conclude with a fireworks display scheduled for around 11 p.m., organised by Fonti Pirotecnica.