
Food FestivalJuly
Sagra della Zuppa e Festival della musica Ballando sotto le stelle di Aquilea
location_onLucca, Lucca e Garfagnana
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Date
July 31 – August 9, 2026
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Admission
Free
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Audience
Everyone
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The 49th edition of the Aquilea Soup Festival returns in August with an authentically Tuscan atmosphere that blends culinary tradition and musical entertainment. Nestled in the gentle hills of Lucca, this small hamlet transforms into a gastronomic oasis where you can rediscover the genuine flavours of local tradition, from July 31 to August 9, 2026. The star of the show is Aquilea Soup, the only Tuscan soup recognised on the official register of Traditional Agri-food Products (PAT) of the Tuscany region, prepared by the village's expert cooks using zero-kilometre vegetables and wild herbs from the area. A dish that perfectly embodies the event's commitment to sustainable tourism. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans, this recipe carries centuries of local history. Beyond the famous soup, food stalls offer a varied menu ranging from grilled specialities to tripe, fried pasta to the celebrated torte co' becchi—traditional sweets made with vegetables, cream and chocolate. Every dish is handmade according to traditional methods, using ingredients sourced exclusively from local farms. DOP wines and oils complete an authentic food and wine experience. But the festival is more than just cuisine: the ‹Ballando sotto le stelle› festival transforms Aquilea into a vibrant outdoor dance floor with engaging musical programming. During the opening evenings (July 31, August 1-2 and 7-8-9), food stalls open from 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM, followed by live music performances, DJ sets and traditional dances that create a magical atmosphere under the starlit sky. The entire event maintains its commitment to sustainability: plastic-free, zero-kilometre sourcing and maximum respect for natural resources. A children's play area, ample illuminated parking and dog-friendly facilities complete the offer for an unforgettable family evening. Free entry to the event; food and beverages paid individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aquilea Soup and what are its main ingredients?expand_more
Aquilea Soup is a traditional dish made exclusively with local vegetables, seasoned with wild herbs typical of Lucca's hilly area. It is the only Tuscan soup recognised as a Traditional Agri-food Product (PAT) of the Tuscany Region and is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Ingredients vary seasonally based on local harvest, ensuring maximum freshness and sustainability.
On which dates does the festival take place?expand_more
The 49th Aquilea Soup Festival runs from July 31 to August 9, 2026. Food stalls and the musical entertainment of the ‹Ballando sotto le stelle› festival are active on the following evenings: July 31, August 1-2, and August 7-8-9.
What time do the stalls open and what can you find besides soup?expand_more
Food stalls open every evening from 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Besides Aquilea Soup, you can find grilled specialities, tripe, fried pasta, local steaks and traditional sweets such as torte co' becchi. Wines and oils from local farms are available. All dishes are prepared according to traditional recipes.
What is the programme for the ‹Ballando sotto le stelle› music festival?expand_more
The music festival offers an evening programme featuring DJ sets, live music with local artists, traditional Tuscan dances and entertainment performances. Shows begin around 9:00 PM and continue late into the evening. The dance floor is set up in the square with illuminated dancing area and lounge space.
What is the cost of entry and what are the prices of dishes?expand_more
Entry to the event is free and complimentary. Dishes and beverages are paid individually at the time of purchase at food stalls. Average prices: Aquilea Soup €8-10, grilled specialities €12-15, desserts €4-6, beverages €2-5.
Are there activities for children and is the event pet-friendly?expand_more
Yes, there is a dedicated children's play area with traditional games and entertainment. The event is completely pet-friendly: dogs are welcome with free access to common areas and dedicated zones for their comfort.
How do you reach Aquilea from Lucca and where can you park?expand_more
From Lucca, follow signs for the SS 12 Brenner highway heading north. Once on the main road, simply follow local signs for Aquilea (approximately 20 km, 25 minutes by car). Ample free illuminated parking is available for all visitors, with reserved spaces for people with disabilities.
Is the event accessible and sustainable?expand_more
Yes, the festival is completely accessible with parking and suitable pathways. The event is built on environmental sustainability: plastic-free, exclusive use of zero-kilometre ingredients, ecological waste management practices and partnerships with certified local farms.
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