Food, fireworks, fairy-tale views, and friendly competition what more can you ask for in a festival?

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

The flames felt dangerously close as I leaned out of my hotel window.

Since the early 1950s, the second Sunday of every May has been all about fish.

Shot of Camogli beach

Credit:Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

I had swiftly fallen into a routine in the seaside haven perched in the aptly named Paradise Gulf.

Early evenings were for embracing the art of theaperitivo, and I was more than happy to oblige.

By the time the festival kicked off, I had already dabbled in the culinary side of Camogli.

Bonfire at night

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

I tucked intotrofie al pesto, a Ligurian specialty, and had myself a meditative moment.

While I had sampled this local dish many times during my stay, this was hands-down the best.

I was biding my time until the procession, something Id only seen on television.

cooking in largest frying pan

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

I made my way up to the church for a front-row seat overlooking the piazza.

All of this, leading up to Sunday Funday, Italia style.

No tickets were needed, but a six-euro donation was encouraged, with all the proceeds going to charity.

Two shots of dishes served in town

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

I didnt blame them; it smelled delicious.

The line moved quickly and I took my bounty to the beach, along with everyone else.

Theacciughe(anchovies) were whole, and Ill admit I wasnt sure how to eat them.

Store front

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Fireworks

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Shot of largest frying pan

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure