Sagra del somarino di Runzi

In the heart of the Polesine region, the hamlet of Runzi hosts a fascinating and characterful festival dedicated to somarino—a traditional Veneto rural specialty featuring donkey meat. This is a dish that tells stories of peasant culture and authentic flavors, passed down through generations. During the festival days, visitors can taste robust and flavorful recipes that embody the essence of local popular cuisine. Among the specialties offered: donkey meat stew accompanied by creamy polenta, fresh homemade pasta with rustic, richly flavored sauces, mixed grills that highlight the quality of local ingredients, and innovative dishes that reinterpret tradition with contemporary flair. The Sagra del somarino di Runzi is far more than a simple gastronomic event: it is a precious opportunity to rediscover and celebrate the culinary traditions that have nourished Veneto's rural communities for centuries. The festival creates a gathering space where food becomes a vehicle of collective memory and connection with the past, keeping alive a culinary practice at risk of disappearing. Beyond quality gastronomy, the event is enriched with varied entertainment: engaging musical evenings featuring local and national artists, cabaret performances offering moments of lightness and conviviality, plus spaces dedicated to local craftsmanship where artisans display their creations. A diverse program that transforms the festival into a true community celebration, where tradition, gastronomy, and culture intertwine in an unforgettable experience. This year the festival takes place from September 5-15, 2026, offering ten days of continuous celebration where residents and tourists can immerse themselves completely in the festive and authentic atmosphere of the Polesine.