Food FestivalAugust
Festival del Riso 2026 a Castel d’Ario: quattro giorni tra il celebre Riso alla Pilota, il concorso 'Spiga d’Oro', musica, luna park e Notte Bianca (Rice Festival in Castel d'Ario)
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location_onCastel d'Ario, Milano e Dintorni
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Date
August 23 – August 25, 2026
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Admission
Free
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Audience
Everyone
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The Festival del Riso returns to Castel d’Ario, celebrating the rich rice-growing traditions of the Mantua area across Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza Castello. The undisputed star of every evening is the renowned Riso alla Pilota De.Co., the area's signature dish prepared using an ancient absorption cooking method and seasoned with savoury spiced pork 'pistume'. Alongside this classic recipe, the festival hosts the 'Spiga d’Oro' Risotto Competition, a culinary showdown featuring local rice mills, chefs, and community associations. The menu showcases a wide array of variations, from risotto with local De.Co. river crayfish ('saltarei') to frog risotto, as well as risotto all'isolana, porcini mushroom risotto, and innovative culinary creations. Visitors can also enjoy a funfair, live musical entertainment, and free performances. The grand finale on August 25th features the awarding of the 'Spiga d’Oro' prize, a traditional tombola lottery, and a spectacular fireworks show.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does the event take place?expand_more
The event takes place from Sunday, August 23, 2026, to Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Where is the event located?expand_more
The event takes place in Castel d'Ario.
Is admission free?expand_more
Yes, admission to the event is free.
What are the opening hours?expand_more
The festival is open from 7:00 PM to 11:55 PM.
What dishes can you taste during the Festival del Riso?expand_more
In addition to the traditional Riso alla Pilota De.Co. with spiced pork, the Spiga d'Oro competition menu offers numerous variations including frog risotto, risotto with local river crayfish ('saltarei'), risotto all'isolana, porcini mushroom risotto, and various creative recipes.