Food FestivalAugust
Sagra del Gorgonzola (Gorgonzola Festival)
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location_onBorgolavezzaro, Lago Maggiore
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Date
August 23 – August 24, 2026
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Admission
Free
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Audience
Everyone
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The Sagra del Gorgonzola in Borgolavezzaro is one of the most eagerly anticipated gastronomic events in the Novara region, celebrating one of Italy's most iconic cheeses. Located in the heart of the border area between Piedmont and Lombardy, right in the premier production zone for gorgonzola, this festival represents an extraordinary opportunity to discover and taste the infinite variations of this distinctive blue-veined cheese. The event offers a surprisingly diverse culinary experience: from pure gorgonzola to its most creative and unexpected interpretations. Visitors can savour this delicious cheese on its own or as a topping for first courses like ravioli, gnocchi, and polenta, or in savoury pairings with local meats and cured meats. For the more adventurous, there are original offerings such as gorgonzola on French fries or even a sweet version paired with pears, which enhances the cheese's subtle sweetness with surprising harmony. Beyond the culinary delights, the festival features a rich programme of live musical performances that accompany the summer evenings, creating a festive and convivial atmosphere. An experience that perfectly combines gastronomic pleasure with entertainment, guaranteeing fun and culinary satisfaction for visitors of all ages.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION Date: 23-24 August 2026 Times: Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 to 23:00 Location: Piazza Principale di Borgolavezzaro, Novara Province
ORGANISATION AND ATTRACTIONS The festival is organised into several themed areas: the main tasting zone with displays from local dairy producers, a food & beverage area with live cooking, a section dedicated to Piedmontese and Lombardy wines, and a family-friendly space for children. Additionally, guided visits to the region's historic cheese factories and workshops on traditional gorgonzola production are scheduled.
PRICES AND ACCESS Entry to the festival is free. Dishes and tastings range from €3 for small samples to €18 for complete menus. Cash is recommended, though major digital payment methods are also accepted.
Text generated with AI based on the sources provided.Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Sagra del Gorgonzola in Borgolavezzaro take place?expand_more
The festival is held on 23-24 August 2026. Opening hours are from 11:00 to 23:00 both days. We recommend arriving early to enjoy the specialities without long queues, especially in the afternoon and evening hours.
What gorgonzola-based dishes will I find at the festival?expand_more
The festival offers a wide selection of dishes: plain gorgonzola, gorgonzola ravioli, gnocchi, polenta, pairings with local meats and cured meats, gorgonzola on French fries, and even sweet gorgonzola with pears. There's something for every taste! Additionally, sommeliers will recommend wine pairings from Piedmont and Lombardy.
What kind of entertainment is available during the event?expand_more
The festival features live musical performances accompanying the evenings, ranging from jazz to local folk music. A family zone with recreational activities for children and workshops on cheesemaking traditions are also available.
Where exactly is Borgolavezzaro and how do I get there?expand_more
Borgolavezzaro is a town located in the border area between Piedmont and Lombardy, in the Novara region. It sits in the heart of the gorgonzola production zone, approximately 40 km from Milan and 60 km from Turin. It's accessible by car via the A4 motorway or by train—the nearest station is in Novara (20 minutes by car).
Can I bring children to the festival?expand_more
Absolutely! The festival has been designed to offer options suitable for every need, including milder cheeses and simple dishes that children will enjoy. A dedicated family area with games and interactive workshops is available, plus live music entertainment for the whole family.
What is the entry fee and what are the dish prices?expand_more
Entry to the festival is completely free. Dishes and tastings are reasonably priced, ranging from €3 for small tastings to €18 for complete menus. Cash is recommended, though major digital payment methods are also accepted.
Are guided visits to local cheese factories offered?expand_more
Yes, guided tours of the region's historic cheese factories are organised during the festival, where you can discover the artisanal gorgonzola production process. Workshops are free with reservation (recommended) at the festival information desk.
Where can I park my car?expand_more
Free parking is available near Piazza Principale and on nearby streets. During the festival days, traffic is managed by volunteers. We recommend arriving early to find parking easily.