Sagra della zuppa di Aquilea
Food FestivalJuly

Sagra della zuppa di Aquilea

location_onAquilea, Lucca e Garfagnana

calendar_today

Date

July 31 – August 9, 2026

map

Location

AquileaAquilea, LU, Italia

directionsGet directions
payments

Admission

Free

family_restroom

Audience

Everyone

wb_sunny

Weather

Check weather

The Sagra della Zuppa di Aquilea is one of Tuscany's most significant gastronomic events, celebrating a humble recipe that encapsulates centuries of peasant tradition. Surrounded by centuries-old vineyards and olive groves in this small Lucchese village, this festival pays homage to an extraordinary dish whose origins date back to the medieval period and continues to be the star of the celebrated "Disfida" competition featuring the province's finest chefs. The Aquilea soup is far more than a simple dish—it is an authentic expression of the territory: vegetables from the fertile plains of Morianese combined with wild hill herbs, over forty varieties, creating an unmatchable harmony of flavors.

During the ten-day celebration from July 31 to August 9, 2026, Aquilea transforms into a true temple of Tuscan gastronomy. Alongside the undisputed queen of the table—the soup officially recognized among Tuscany's Traditional Agri-Food Products—the menu offers other local delights such as grilled meat, tordelli, hand-made pasta, and the typical vegetable pies "co' becchi di verdura." The experience extends beyond food: each evening the adjacent arena comes alive with the Music Festival, featuring DJ sets and live performances accompanying dinners under the stars.

For a truly inclusive celebration, the organizers have thought of everyone: families find a spacious play area for children, while four-legged friends are welcomed in the pet-friendly zone. The Sagra della Zuppa di Aquilea thus represents the perfect blend of culinary tradition, entertainment, and conviviality—an event worth experiencing to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of rural Tuscany and its gastronomic heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the traditional recipe for Aquilea soup?expand_more
Aquilea soup is prepared with vegetables sourced exclusively from the fertile Morianese plains, seasoned with over forty varieties of wild herbs foraged from the hills. It is a peasant cuisine dish from Tuscan countryside tradition, officially recognized among Tuscany's Traditional Agri-Food Products (PAT). The recipe has been passed down through generations and varies slightly depending on the season and local availability.
When does the Sagra della Zuppa di Aquilea take place?expand_more
The festival runs from July 31 to August 9, 2026 in Aquilea, in the province of Lucca, surrounded by centuries-old vineyards and olive groves. The event is open daily for the entire duration, with evening hours starting from 7:00 PM for dinners and musical performances.
What are the opening hours of the festival?expand_more
The festival is open from 7:00 PM onwards throughout the event dates (July 31 - August 9, 2026). During the day, dedicated areas for children's games are available with specific hours to be communicated at the entrance. For detailed information about individual opening times, we recommend contacting the organizers.
What does the festival offer besides soup?expand_more
In addition to the soup, the menu features grilled meat, tordelli, hand-made pasta, and the typical vegetable pies "co' becchi di verdura." Each evening the adjacent arena hosts the Music Festival with DJ sets and live performances. There is also a children's play area with dedicated activities and a pet-friendly zone. Dish prices range from €8 to €15, with family menus available.
How can I participate? Is a reservation required?expand_more
The festival is open access with no mandatory reservation. You can arrive and dine at available tables, or make reservations for groups of 10 or more people by contacting the organizers. For reservations and detailed information, it is advisable to contact the municipality of Aquilea directly or the Lucca tourist office.
What is the 'Disfida' of Aquilea soup?expand_more
It is a historic competition dating back to medieval times and continuing to the present day, bringing together chefs from across the Lucca province. The Disfida celebrates the gastronomic importance of the soup and the quality of local traditional recipes. During the 2026 festival, participation from the finest local chefs is scheduled, with prizes awarded for the best soups based on tradition, innovation, and flavor.
Can I bring pets to the festival?expand_more
Yes, the festival is completely pet-friendly with a dedicated area where your animals can accompany you during the event. Pets are welcome in all outdoor areas of the festival, with water bowls available near the entrance.
What are the prices for dishes and menus?expand_more
Main dishes at the festival range from €8 to €15. Aquilea soup is available as a single dish (€10) or as a complete menu including first course, second course, dessert, and beverage (€20-25). Special children's menus are priced at €12 and family menus are available for groups. Prices may vary based on seasonal availability.
info

This event is not yet managed on sagr.it. Information may not be up to date.