Food FestivalDecember
Festa del mandorlato
location_onCologna Veneta, Verona e Lago di Garda
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Date
December 6 – December 8, 2026
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Admission
Free
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Audience
Everyone
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Weather
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The Festa del Mandorlato of Cologna Veneta is an unmissable event for lovers of traditional Veneto sweets, returning faithfully during the Christmas season to celebrate one of the territory's most iconic products. With a history dating back to 1840, when a local apothecary had the brilliant idea of combining honey, egg white, sugar, and blanched almonds, mandorlato represents the excellence of local pastry-making and the perfect union of distinctive flavour and crunchy texture. Organised by the Pro loco of Cologna Veneta, this festival has achieved forty consecutive years of success and recognition, evolving over time into an increasingly complete and varied event. Beyond the undisputed star, mandorlato, the celebration offers visitors an extensive selection of artisanal delicacies, live music, and entertainment that create a festive and welcoming atmosphere. The festival has progressively expanded its scope, becoming a showcase for other gastronomic treasures of the Colognese region. Potatoes and red radicchio—simple yet genuine fruits of the earth—feature in market stalls, allowing visitors to discover the richness and variety of local agricultural traditions. Three intense days of celebration dedicated to authentic taste, artisanal heritage, and conviviality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mandorlato and what are its ingredients?expand_more
Mandorlato is a typical Christmas sweet from Cologna Veneta, characterised by its crunchy texture and distinctive flavour. It is made by blending together honey, egg white, sugar, and blanched almonds. The recipe dates back to 1840, when a local apothecary had the inspiration to combine these ingredients, creating a sweet that continues to represent the pinnacle of Veneto pastry-making today.
When and where does the Festa del Mandorlato take place?expand_more
The Festa del Mandorlato takes place from 6 to 8 December 2026 in Cologna Veneta, in the province of Verona. The festival is held in the town's historic centre. The three festive days celebrate this typical product and other gastronomic treasures of the region, with opening hours from 10:00 to 22:00.
What other products are featured at the festival besides mandorlato?expand_more
Beyond mandorlato, the festival also showcases other local specialities of the Colognese region, such as potatoes and red radicchio. The event features local artisanal delicacies, live music, folk performances, and numerous educational activities, making it a comprehensive opportunity to discover the local gastronomic and artisanal treasures.
How can I reach the Festa del Mandorlato?expand_more
Cologna Veneta is located in the province of Verona, easily accessible by car via the SS12 and A4 motorway. Public car parks are available in the immediate vicinity of the historic centre where the festival takes place. For those using public transport, Cologna Veneta can be reached by bus from Verona.
Is there an entrance fee for the festival?expand_more
The Festa del Mandorlato is a free, open-access event. Purchases of products and tastings are paid separately according to prices displayed by vendors.
Who can I contact for more information about the festival?expand_more
For detailed information about the Festa del Mandorlato, you can contact the Pro loco of Cologna Veneta (tel. 045-6175599, email: [email protected]) or visit the website www.colognaveeta.it. During the festival, volunteers and staff will also be available to assist visitors.
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