Food FestivalMarch
Sagra del Castagnolo
location_onMonte San Vito, Riviera del Conero
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Date
March 15, 2027
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Admission
Free
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Audience
Everyone
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In the rolling hills of the Marche region, the village of Monte San Vito comes alive with one of Italy's most original and entertaining food festivals: the Sagra del Castagnolo. Officially born in 1965 from the meeting of ancient Lenten traditions and Carnival celebrations, this event has preserved the authenticity and conviviality that have defined it since its rural origins. Today it remains an unmissable appointment for those seeking to discover the genuine flavours of Marche and the warm hospitality of a community passionate about celebrating its heritage. The heart of the festival is undoubtedly the castagnolo, the Carnival sweet that steals the show. Prepared according to an ancient recipe of eggs, sugar, flour and lemon zest, infused with a hint of mistrà liqueur and fried into golden balls, this delightful treat perfectly embodies local gastronomic tradition. But the Sagra del Castagnolo is much more than food: the village streets come alive with colourful masks, parades, brass bands and majorettes, while squares transform into a grand stage of celebration and joy. The event that makes this festival truly unique is undoubtedly the highly anticipated sausage parachute drop—a tradition born in the 1950s that continues to fascinate and delight visitors. From Piazza della Repubblica, sausages attached to tiny parachutes are launched into the air, with spectators stretching their hands skyward to catch these quirky ‹gifts from heaven›. A playful moment that perfectly captures the spirit of the festival: convivial, authentic, and full of surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is castagnolo and how is it prepared?expand_more
Castagnolo is a typical Marche Carnival sweet made with a simple yet delicious recipe: a batter of eggs, sugar, flour and lemon zest, infused with a drop of mistrà liqueur, then fried into small golden balls. It is the undisputed star of the Sagra del Castagnolo in Monte San Vito.
When was the Sagra del Castagnolo established?expand_more
The Sagra del Castagnolo was officially founded in 1965, though its roots run deep in rural tradition and mid-Lenten Carnival celebrations, when farmers would gather for moments of cheer and fellowship during the pre-Easter period of abstinence.
What is the festival's most distinctive event?expand_more
The most fascinating and original attraction is the sausage parachute drop, a tradition that began in the 1950s. Sausages attached to small parachutes are launched from Piazza della Repubblica, while spectators try to catch them. This lighthearted moment draws increasing numbers of visitors year after year.
What other attractions does the festival offer besides food?expand_more
The festival offers a rich programme of entertainment for all ages: colourful masks, parades featuring brass bands and majorettes, team games, children's entertainment and live music. The village streets transform into a spectacular display of celebration and conviviality.
When during the year does the Sagra del Castagnolo take place?expand_more
The Sagra del Castagnolo takes place on 15 March, around the Carnival season. This date maintains the historical connection to ancient Lenten celebrations and Carnival traditions that gave birth to the festival.
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