The magic of music with a view of the sea and the Apuan Alps
The quiet of early morning. The golden light before sunrise. A heavenly melody. In just a few years, the Dawn Concert on Ferragosto (August 15) has become one of the most anticipated and beloved summer events in Forte dei Marmi, offering a magical moment at the height of beach season—an experience you simply must witness.
A unique early-morning experience
This year, I had my own special moment: at 6 a.m., my son woke me up to say, “Mom, look at this incredible sight on the pier!” He and his friends were heading home from an all-night party with croissants in hand when they stumbled upon elegantly dressed women in white and men in white shirts and Bermuda shorts holding instruments at the Pontile Vittorio Cardini square. Although they have celebrated Ferragosto here for years, they had never seen this ritual before (probably because they always left too early 😄).
The ritual of the Dawn Concert
The Dawn Concert on the Forte dei Marmi pier is a young tradition that has quickly become a ritual. Our neighbor, who looks forward to this unforgettable experience every year, shared that it’s worth waking up early for. Perhaps it’s the magic of the famous classical melodies accompanying the sunrise. Perhaps it’s the serene, almost spiritual calm as the sea watches. Or maybe it’s the untouched, empty beach at dawn. And then there’s the stylish, mixed crowd—young and old—arriving quietly on bicycles to witness the music at sunrise.
Gastronomic traditions after sunrise
The concert is complemented by a “fisherman’s breakfast”: bread with tomato and anchovy, transformed into chic crostini. Then come croissants and cappuccino at the bars that open early for the occasion.
At the end of the concert, the Pontile Fishermen’s Association traditionally serves a light breakfast, and this year a truly special treat crowned the experience: Fiore 1827 summer panettone filled with peaches and apricots.
A must-see experience
Every year, the program brings surprises, but the artistic quality is always top-notch. Locals and tourists alike are captivated by the way music, sunrise, the sea, and community create a magical unity.
I am certain that next year I will be there in person, not just on the phone. And I hope you will visit and join us on this extraordinary morning.