Pumpkin Festival: Italy’s Tastiest Festivals for autumn 2024

Thanks to its numerous varieties of this delicious vegetable, Italy is a prime location for tasting and savoring pumpkin. Autumn festivals in Italy are also the perfect opportunity to learn more about the typical products of Italian regions, while visiting beautiful villages. During these festivals, the villages come alive with stalls, markets, workshops dedicated to pumpkins and more.

Italy’s pumpkin festivals have become must-attend events for autumn weekends, both for locals and tourists. We have selected the most fascinating and popular ones you shouldn't miss between October and November in Italy. Here they are!

One of the most anticipated and iconic celebrations in Italy is the Pumpkin Festival of Venzone, located in the beautiful region of Friuli Venezia Giulia. At the end of October, the narrow cobblestone streets of Venzone, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, are transformed into a spectacular journey back in time. The Pumpkin Festival, held on October 26 and 27, 2024, transports visitors to the medieval era, immersing them in the enchanting atmosphere of this perfectly preserved village. Venzone, famous for its medieval architecture, becomes a pumpkin paradise each year, with historic streets filled with stalls, competitions, and pumpkin-themed artwork.

But this village is more than just a tourist destination: it’s a symbol of rebirth and strength, meticulously rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1976. Here, you can savor pumpkin dishes, admire carved sculptures, and enjoy the extraordinary atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over Italy every year.

Highlights of the Venzone Pumpkin Festival:

-Medieval Market: Step back in time with a traditional craft market.

-Pumpkin Carving Contest: A competitive display of skill and creativity with incredible pumpkin sculptures.

-Pumpkin Delicacies: Savor gnocchi, risottos, and delicious pumpkin-based sweets.

From October 12 to 20, 2024, Dorno hosts the Bertagnina Pumpkin Festival, an event that celebrates this particular variety of pumpkin typical of the Lomellina region. Pumpkin cultivation in this area has deep roots, thanks to the natural characteristics that allow for optimal growth. In the past, the Bertagnina pumpkin was predominantly grown, a variety that was especially appreciated and whose name seems to derive from the dialect term "bartò" or "bartòl," referring to the traditional farmers' cap, the coppola. The bumps on the lower part of the pumpkin symbolically resemble the shape of this hat, linking agricultural tradition to local folklore.

In addition to tasting typical dishes, the festival offers an authentic experience with markets, shows, and activities for children, making it perfect for a family day out.

Highlights of The Bertagnina Pumpkin Festival:

-Bertagnina Cake: A traditional sweet made with pumpkin and jam.

-Pumpkin Risotto Feast: One of the main attractions, with over 60 kg of risotto served to participants.

On October 19 and 20, 2024, Rocchetta di Cengio will host the 20th edition of Pumpkin in the Square, a celebration of biodiversity and the traditions of the Val Bormida region, which annually combines gastronomy, traditions, and typical products. Organized by the Slow Food Community of Val Bormida, the festival features cooking shows, tastings of typical pumpkin-based dishes like risottos and soups, and a themed dinner called "Pumpkin in Bloom." During the event, visitors can purchase local products, participate in artisanal workshops, and enjoy entertainment like music and performances.

Highlights:

-Themed Dinner: A dinner featuring pumpkin dishes paired with edible flowers.

-Cooking Shows: Culinary demonstrations dedicated to pumpkin, with traditional recipes.

On the shores of Lake Varese, from October 6 to 20, 2024, the traditional Gavirate Pumpkin Festival returns. Famous for offering pumpkin in every imaginable dish, visitors of all ages flock to Gavirate each year to savor a wide range of local pumpkin-based dishes while enjoying the serene lake views. An ideal stop for food lovers looking to enjoy a day outdoors, this event is part of the larger "Autumn Flavors" festival and attracts visitors of all ages who are eager to taste a variety of pumpkin dishes. From risottos and polenta to sweets like cakes and tarts, pumpkin is featured in every imaginable form.

In addition to the culinary offerings, the festival includes themed activities such as workshops, artistic carvings, and local markets, making the event perfect for families and food lovers alike. Guests can enjoy the peaceful views of Lake Varese, combining the pleasure of food with the beauty of nature. It’s an ideal experience for those seeking a relaxing outdoor day filled with seasonal flavors and local traditions.

Highlights of the Gavirate Pumpkin Festival:

-Pumpkin Polenta: A unique twist on the classic Lombard dish, combining the creaminess of pumpkin with traditional polenta.

-Pumpkin Sweets: Indulge in cakes, tarts, and fritters, all made with locally grown pumpkins.

At the top of the list is the Pumpkin Festival of Foiano della Chiana, located in the heart of Tuscany, which takes place on October 14 and 15, 2024. This charming town, known for its agricultural roots, hosts one of Italy’s most beloved autumn festivals, where the pumpkin takes center stage in both food and art. Here, Italy's largest pumpkins compete in a spectacular contest, with numerous stands in the historic center offering farm-to-table products and traditional Tuscan dishes such as pumpkin soup and tarts.

Highlights of Pumpkin Festival of Foiano della Chiana:

-Giant Pumpkin Contest: A competition featuring Italy’s largest pumpkins.

-Typical Dishes: Tastings of pumpkin-based dishes at various food stands in the historic center.

-Artistic Installations: Stroll through streets adorned with magnificent pumpkin sculptures.

Whether you’re a food lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a fun seasonal activity, these pumpkin festivals should definitely be on your calendar.

Plan your visit to one of these festivals and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of autumn in Italy!