Marche offers a vibrant food scene that has been honed over centuries. Every year, the region hosts a variety of culinary festivals, known as “sagre”, showcasing locally-sourced products, dishes, as well as cooking techniques. From truffles to olive oil, seafood to pasta, the food festivals are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Here’s a look at some of the most mouthwatering culinary festivals in the region.
Sagra del Tartufo (Truffle Festival) – Acqualagna
Acqualagna, a charming town in the province of Pesaro and Urbino, is renowned for its truffles, particularly the expensive white variety. Sagra del Tartufo, held annually in October, is an unmissable appointment for truffle lovers coming from all over the world. They indulge over a wide range of truffle-based dishes, including pasta and meat. The festival also features cooking shows by local chefs, guided truffle hunts in the surrounding woods, plus a bustling market. For foodies, it’s an unforgettable experience to sample the rich, earthy flavour of freshly harvested truffles in a picturesque Italian town.
Festa della Vendemmia (Grape Harvest Festival) – Offida
Across Italy the grape harvest is a time of celebration and in Offida is honoured with a lively festival called the Festa della Vendemmia. Held in early autumn, this festival focuses on the region’s rich winemaking tradition, particularly the local vines Pecorino and Verdicchio.
The festival features wine tastings, food stalls offering delicacies such as roasted meats and cheese, and lively parades through the streets. Music, dance, and a buzzy atmosphere background the harvest fetes, offering visitors an authentic taste of the local lore.
Sagra delle Olive Ascolane (Ascolana Olive Festival) – Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno is renowned for its stuffed and fried Olive Ascolane, which are the city’s culinary hallmarks. Sagra delle Olive Ascolane, held annually in late summer, celebrates thisdelicacy. The festival is an opportunity to try the famous olives stuffed with a mix of meat, bread crumbs, and herbs, then fried to crispy perfection.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of local food and drink, including regional wines and cheeses. The town itself is a historic gem, with medieval squares, ancient churches, and charming alleys, making it the perfect backdrop for this food-focused fete.
Festa della Crescia (Crescia Festival) – Urbino
Urbino, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its Renaissance architecture, also boasts a type of bread called Crescia. Festa della Crescia, held each year in early spring, revolves around this simple, yet delicious food which can be salty or sweety. The festival also showcases other locally-sourced nuggets like porchetta (roast pork), vincisgrassi (a Marche-style lasagna), and a variety of regional desserts.
Sagra della Pasta alla Campofilone (Pasta Festival) – Campofilone
Campofilone, a small town in the province of Fermo, is famous for its pasta alla Campofilone, a handmade pasta often seasoned with the tasty sauce ragù. Visitors can also enjoy cooking demonstrations and workshops to learn about the crafty process of making this unique type of pasta. The event draws foodies from all over Italy and beyond, all eager to experience the town’s signature dish.