Castagnata Alpina e Polenta Taragna (Alpine Chestnut & Polenta Festival)

The traditional Castagnata Alpina e Polenta Taragna returns to Abbiategrasso. Organized by the local Gruppo Alpini, this beloved event has transformed central Piazza Castello, near the Visconti Castle, into a festive hub of autumn flavors and convivial spirit for over forty years. Taking center stage on the menu are freshly roasted chestnuts, prepared slowly over large braziers, alongside authentic polenta taragna—the quintessential mountain comfort dish made with cornmeal and buckwheat blended with melted butter and rich cheese. The food stalls also serve classic Lombard desserts including castagnaccio (chestnut cake), pan dei morti ('bread of the dead' cookies), and various kinds of pan meìn (sweet elderflower corn cakes), paired with fragrant mulled wine and traditional Alpine folk songs. True to the Alpini spirit of solidarity, proceeds from the festival are donated to local charitable causes and community initiatives.