Food FestivalAugust
Ascoliva Festival
location_onAscoli Piceno, Ascoli e Sibillini
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Date
August 9 – August 20, 2026
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Admission
Free
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Audience
Everyone
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The Ascoliva Festival returns, the most anticipated event of the Ascoli summer season: a world-class celebration dedicated to the Ascoli Piceno DOP olive, the undisputed star of this one-of-a-kind festival. From August 9-20, 2026, Ascoli Piceno transforms into a grand stage where tradition, quality, and culinary innovation meet to honour one of the Marche region's most prestigious products. In the Olive Village, you can savour the finest stuffed Ascoli olives crafted by renowned artisanal producers, along with 12 signature dishes from local cuisine that complete an unforgettable gastronomic experience. But Ascoliva is far more than a food festival: it's a 360-degree cultural experience combining exclusive tastings, interactive workshops, and engaging activities like Olive Day and the entertaining Olive Olympics. The beating heart of the festival remains the ‹Ascoliva› Prize, the historic competition among local housewives showcasing their homemade stuffed Ascoli olive creations—a celebration of authentic Piceno home cooking excellence. This edition marks the triumphant return of an event that has earned international recognition, becoming the global reference point for lovers of this extraordinary DOP product. An unmissable opportunity to discover the secrets of centuries-old culinary tradition, meet the masters of the craft, and be captivated by the authentic flavours of the Marche.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ascoli Piceno DOP olive?expand_more
The Ascoli Piceno DOP olive is a large green olive stuffed with meat, cheese, and spices—a distinctive, protected product from the province of Ascoli Piceno. It is renowned for its generous size, delicate flavour, and traditional recipe passed down through generations. Each hand-stuffed olive represents an excellence of Italian gastronomy recognised throughout Europe.
What are the main events at Ascoliva Festival?expand_more
The festival offers various attractions: the Olive Village featuring leading artisanal producers, guided tastings and workshops, Olive Day with the Olive Olympics, cultural and gastronomic encounters, and most notably the ‹Ascoliva› Prize—the historic competition among local housewives for the best homemade stuffed Ascoli olive.
Can I taste dishes other than stuffed olives?expand_more
Absolutely! Beyond the signature stuffed Ascoli olives, the festival showcases 12 traditional local dishes, offering a complete overview of Marche gastronomy and allowing you to discover other authentic regional flavours.
When does the Ascoliva Prize take place?expand_more
The ‹Ascoliva› Prize is one of the festival's key events, featuring a competition among local housewives preparing the finest homemade stuffed Ascoli olives. Specific dates will be announced in the official festival programme.
How do I reach Ascoli Piceno?expand_more
Ascoli Piceno is easily accessible by car from the A14 motorway (San Benedetto del Tronto or Porto d'Ascoli exits) or by train with connections to major Marche stations. The city is well served by public transport and offers parking for visitors.
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