Historical ReenactmentOctober
Festa della Zucca (Pumpkin Festival)
location_onVenzone, Pordenone e Dolomiti Friulane
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Date
October 25 – October 26, 2026
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Admission
Free
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Audience
Everyone
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The Festa della Zucca in Venzone is an extraordinary event that transforms the charming Friuli historic town centre into a medieval stage where pumpkin reigns supreme. Every fourth weekend in October, this fascinating village comes alive with musicians, jugglers, fire-eaters and colourful characters like the Pumpkin Mayor and members of the Sacred ArciConfraternity, creating a spirited and engaging atmosphere that transports visitors on a journey through history, tradition and folklore. But the true magic lies in the gastronomic celebration of this remarkable vegetable: pumpkins are transformed into culinary masterpieces presented in twenty different preparations, served in courtyard taverns by costumed waiters using wooden bowls and even bread bowls. From soups to pies, from sweet treats to breadsticks, everything revolves around this humble autumn fruit, capable of surprising even the most demanding palates. The festival reaches peaks of originality with the legendary 'pumpkinometer' that measures the giant specimens in competition and the carved pumpkin contest, genuine works of art transformed into fascinating sculptures. With specimens exceeding 450 kg, Venzone demonstrates how a simple village celebration can become a memorable experience where gastronomy, history and creativity meet perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Festa della Zucca take place?expand_more
The Festa della Zucca is held every year on the fourth weekend of October. In 2026 it will take place on 25 and 26 October in Venzone, Friuli Venezia Giulia.
What are the main attractions of the festival?expand_more
The event features historical reenactments with medieval characters, approximately twenty different pumpkin-based dishes served in courtyard taverns, contests for carved and decorated pumpkins, the pumpkinometer to measure the largest fruits, and stalls selling sweet treats, bread and focaccia made with pumpkin.
Where do the main events take place?expand_more
Events are spread throughout Venzone's medieval historic centre: the courtyards of the main palaces host the taverns with food, stalls line the streets, and musicians, jugglers and costumed characters animate the atmosphere throughout the town.
What is the heaviest pumpkin ever recorded?expand_more
Over the years of the Festa della Zucca, specimens weighing over 450 kg have been recorded, demonstrating the extraordinary quality of pumpkins grown in the area.
How is the food served during the festival?expand_more
Food is served in a characteristic way: dishes are presented in earthenware, wooden bowls and even bread bowls (especially for the vegetable soup), by costumed servers working in the taverns set up in the courtyards.
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