Italy’s obsession with food and the quality of ingredients can be seen in the myriad festivals that occur in each region of the country, all year round. While based around food, many of these events are embedded in local culture and customs, and offer visitors a valuable snapshot of life with very different priorities and rhythms
Eurochocolate, Perugia, Umbria
The 25th annual International Chocolate Exhibition takes place in Perugia, the capital of Umbria, from October 19 to 28. It was attended last year by more than 32 million people, and attractions include a chocolate barbecue and a four-metre wide box of chocolates. Experts from across Italy will feed and entertain the multitude of chocolate enthusiasts with samples, tasting courses and shops. For more information visit www.eurochocolate.com.
International White Truffle Fair, Alba, Piedmont
This year marks the 88th annual festival dedicated to the Alba white truffle. It runs from October 6 until November 25, and the fair is held in the centre of Alba, a Unesco “Creative City”. It hots a large market, Italian and international chefs and writers, artists and designers with a passion for the tubers, and events are accompanied by historical parades, concerts and exhibitions.For more information on the fair visit www.fieradeltartufo.org/en/.
Nougat festival, Cremona, Lombardy
Cremona dedicates nine days to its local sweet, nougat, or torrone. Stalls, shows, musical entertainment and historical re-enactments accompany a giant torrone in the main piazza. For more information visit www.festadeltorronecremona.it.
Garda con Gusto, Lake Garda and Trentino
From November 2 to 4, the traditions and innovations of the gastronomic harvest of Lake Garda and Trentino are celebrated. The main local dish is carne salada (salted beef or venison seasoned with juniper, laurel, garlic, pepper and rosemary), but the region also showcases olive oil, coffee and cake. For further details visit www.gardatrentino.it/en or www.gardacongusto.it.