THE NIGHT OF THE "LAMPARE" IN CETARA

First of all, what is a “lampara”? Lampare are types of lamps mounted on small fishing boats to illuminate specific areas of water and attract fish. By extension, the boats themselves used for this type of fishing are also called “lampare.” This is an ancient technique that takes advantage of a biological phenomenon called positive phototaxis: basically, fish orient themselves and swim toward the light source in search of food, since the light attracts plankton and other tiny marine organisms on which they feed. Once the schools of fish approach the light source, the fishermen lower their nets—called “ciancioli”—and trap the fish; the nets are then closed at the bottom, and the catch is hauled in.

First of all, it’s important to remember that fishing here isn’t just a tradition—it’s the very heart of Cetara’s culture. Most of the locals still make their living from fishing; that’s why there has always been a deep, visceral bond between the sea and the local people. 
So, why should you attend the Night of the Lampare? Well, imagine this scene: you’re on the waterfront of the beautiful village of Cetara on a summer night, with a sky full of stars and the sea lit by the moon, while dozens and dozens of fishing boats prepare to set sail in their distinctive little boats. After that, you will head out to the open sea alongside those who’ve been doing this every night for centuries and will witness every stage of the fishing process: the search for schools of anchovies, the lighting of the lamps, the thrill of lowering the nets, and the satisfaction of hauling in the catch… in short, the reenactment of lampara fishing is one of the most authentic experiences you can have on the Amalfi Coast! 
What’s more, the event is always paired with days of workshops, music, and tastings of local cuisine: it’s a real party!

This year, the 49th edition of the Notte delle Lampare will take place from August 5 to 8. Four full days of events, featuring tradition, music, cuisine, and—of course—night fishing for Cetara’s world-famous anchovies! Here is the detailed program, which you can also find at this link. 

• August 5, 2026: The first day is dedicated to involving the entire community, so there will be fun and recreational activities and workshops for children and families. Next up is the “Sfida dei Sapori” (Challenge of Flavors), centered on local culinary excellence.  
• August 6, 2026: The main event of the day will be a historical reenactment parade dedicated to local fishing and agriculture, followed by musical entertainment inspired by folk traditions. 
• August 7, 2026: On this date, the “A tutto tonno” event returns, dedicated to promoting bluefin tuna, with tastings, performances, and entertainment. 
• August 8, 2026: The festival concludes with the Night of the Lampare: the traditional anchovy fishing expedition is accompanied by food tastings, musical performances, and cultural events highlighting the relationship between the Cetara community and the sea.

In conclusion, the “Notte delle Lampare” event is not merely a historical reenactment, but an opportunity for the village of Cetara to showcase its cultural and gastronomic heritage. And for those visiting the Amalfi Coast, it is a truly unique opportunity to discover the most authentic and genuine side of the region and, above all, to appreciate a tradition that is still very much alive—one that captures the seafaring spirit of the coast and never fails to enchant anyone lucky enough to experience it.