The “Sagra dei Osei”, that takes place in Sacile on the first Sunday after Ferragosto (bank holiday on 15th August), is certainly the oldest of its type and one of the oldest Italian and European festivals. Started in 1274 as a market, today the "Sagra dei Osei", with its songbird contest, represents the most important European bird show. In fact, during the show prizes are awarded to the birds judged to be the best singers in each individual category and the “National Song-thrush” is elected. Furthermore, it can then attend the exhibition of the European Birdcalls Championships.

The "Sagra dei osei" is the tradition of a formula, of a genuine expression, the inalienable heritage of Sacile. Born at first as a market, the festival was not organised: it was repeated each year for the tacit participation of song-bird breeders and the local craftsmen, skilful makers of cages, horsehair ties, nets and traps. Its continuation and good fortune over the centuries is explained by a coincidence of factors: the nature of the land rich in woods, waters and outcrops, to which is added the favourable position of an area over-flown by numerous seasonal migrants. Over the years the simple market changed into a song-bird festival and the most important European bird show.