Asti’s Festival of Festivals 2023: Date, menu, history
Asti’s Festival of Festivals is a renowned celebration that has captivated the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike for over five decades. This article takes a nostalgic journey through the history of this esteemed festival, tracing its origins from 1966 to 1974.
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a gastronomic extravaganza, we delve into the festival’s inception and early years, explore the delectable typical dishes that have become synonymous with the event, unveil the spectacular parade that enchants attendees, and delve into the main awards that have honored culinary excellence throughout the years.
Join us as we uncover the rich history and traditions of Asti’s Festival of Festivals, showcasing the exceptional talents, specialty awards, and esteemed guests that have made this event one of the most anticipated and revered in the culinary world.
Overview of Asti’s Festival of Festivals 2023:
Asti’s Festival of Festivals, known in Italian as the “Festival delle Sagre”, is a grand celebration held in Asti, located in the Piedmont region of Italy. This event encapsulates the essence of country life, its customs, traditions, and most importantly, its culinary treasures.
- Date & Time: The event is scheduled for the weekend of the second Sunday in September, which, for 2023, falls on the 9th and 10th of September. The feast begins on Saturday evening and culminates on Sunday.
- Vino Distribution: This year sees a change in the distribution of wine. The responsibility will no longer rest with the pro loco but will be handled by CIA. The change aims to provide attendees with a broader selection of wine and dish pairings. Prices for wines will range between €2 and €4 per glass.
- Water Supply: The traditional water fountains will be removed. However, bottled water will only be available at CIA stations.
- Sunday’s Parade Route: The parade on Sunday morning will follow a slightly altered route. It will commence from via Cavour and culminate in Piazza Campo del Palio. Instead of traveling the stretch between Piazza San Secondo and Piazza Alfieri on Corso Alfieri, the parade will now directly enter Piazza Alfieri from via Garibaldi.
- Venue:
- Food and Wine Village: Situated in Piazza Campo del Palio, the square metamorphoses into a quintessential village with brick houses, a church, a town hall, and even a post office.
- Parade Route: The grand parade graces the streets of Asti’s historic center.
- Significance: The festival celebrates the traditions and flavors of Asti and the broader Piedmont region. It gathers over 200,000 attendees and serves around 500,000 dishes each year, making it a key event in Italy’s cultural and culinary calendar.
- Culinary Highlights:
- Open-Air Restaurant: Piazza Campo del Palio becomes Italy’s largest open-air restaurant for the festival. Over forty Pro Loco associations establish their stands, each offering a dish that epitomizes Asti’s rich culinary heritage, from “agnolotti del plin” to “bagna cauda” and desserts like chocolate “bonèt”. These are complemented by glasses of D.O.C. or D.O.C.G. wines.
- Culinary Preview: The evening before the main event (Saturday) is dedicated especially to the youth, providing a tantalizing preview of the gastronomic delights to come.
- The Parade: On Sunday, a historic parade becomes the centerpiece of the festival. Thousands of participants don period attire to recreate scenes from the rural life of bygone eras. This parade not only showcases the rich culture of Asti but also acts as a living museum, with participants using authentic tools and machinery from the pre-industrial era.
- Theme and Atmosphere: The 2023 edition, happening on the 9th and 10th of September, invites attendees to relive the ambiance of the countryside between the 1800s and 1900s, offering an unparalleled blend of gastronomic experiences and historical reenactment unique to Italy.
In essence, Asti’s Festival of Festivals 2023 promises a vibrant, flavorful, and culturally rich experience for attendees, making it a must-attend event for anyone keen on immersing themselves in Italy’s cherished traditions.
Menu Asti’s Festival of Festivals 2023 (9th and 10th of September)
| Town | Antipasto (Starter) | Primo (Main Course) | Secondo (Second Course) | Dolce (Dessert) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antignano | – | 🌽 Tajarin with Sausage (Tajarin & Salsiccia) | – | 🍒 Cherry Tart (Torta di Ciliegie) |
| Azzano | – | 🍄 Mushroom Risotto (Risotto ai Funghi) | – | – |
| Calliano | 🥓 Donkey Salami (Salame d’asino) | 🥟 Donkey Ravioli (Ravioli di Asino) | – | – |
| Cantarana | – | 🥩 Veal & Tuna (Vitello Tonnato) | – | 🍑 Peaches (Pesche) |
| Casabianca | 🌽 Fried Polenta & Gorgonzola | – | – | 🍖 Sweet Salami (Salame Dolce) |
| Castellero | – | – | – | 🍪 Hazelnut Cookies & Hazelnut Crunchies |
| Cortazzone | – | 🍝 Egg Tagliatelle with Truffle | – | 🍷 Peaches in Malvasia |
| Costigliole | – | 🥟 Ravioli “plin” | – | 🍫 Chocolate Bunet |
| Cunico | – | 🥔 Potato Gnocchi (Gnocchi di Patate) | – | – |
| Grazzano Badoglio | 🍇 Grape & Garlic Soma | – | 🍞 Toasted Bread with Tomato & Grape (Bruschetta) | – |
| Mombercelli | 🍞 Salty Pancake with Lard | – | – | – |
| Monastero Bormida | 🍞 “Puccia” Bread | – | 🧀 Cheese & Mustard with Moscato Grape | – |
| Mongardino | – | 🍷 Risotto in Barbera d’Asti | – | 🍪 Sweet “Mun” Brick |
| Montechiaro | – | 🍚 Truffle Risotto | – | 🍰 Sweet Cream Pastry |
| Montiglio Monferrato | – | 🍳 Fried Eggs with Truffle & Polenta | – | 🍰 Hazelnut Cake |
| Quarto d’Asti | – | 🍝 Tagliatelle with Sausage & Pepper Sauce | – | 🍫 Chocolate & Hazelnut Roll |
| Revignano | – | – | – | 🍷 Moscato d’Asti Zabaglione & 🍫 Grandma’s Bunet |
| Santa Caterina di R. | – | 🍝 Meat Sauce Agnolotti | – | 🍮 Old Casa Savoia Pudding |
| San Damiano | – | 🍖 Sausage in Barbera d’Asti Wine | – | 🍰 Apple Pie |
| San Marzanotto | 🍞 Farmer’s Toast with B. & Anchovies | – | 🍞 Spiced Lard on Bread | – |
| Sessant | 🥩 Raw Astigiana Beef | – | – | 🍞 Traditional Sweet Bread Cake |
| Tonco | – | 🍗 Turkey Carpionata with Zucchini | 🌶️ Peppers with Bagna Cauda | – |
| Valenzani | – | 🍖 Donkey Stew with Polenta in Ruchè Wine | 🍖 Pork Salami with Ruchè | – |
| Variglie | 🍞 “Pan MariĂ ” (Fried E-S Bread) | – | 🍚 Small Rice Fritters | – |
| Viarigi | – | 🍝 Agnolotti with Roast Sauce | – | – |
| Villafranca | – | 🍝 Porcini Mushroom Tagliatelle | – | 🍫 Chocolate Bunet |
Asti’s Grand Celebration of Tradition: The Festival of Festivals
Asti, a jewel of Italy’s Piedmont region, takes pride in its rich history, deep-rooted traditions, and culinary wonders. Once every September, the city weaves all these elements into an enchanting tapestry known as the Festival delle Sagre or the Festival of Festivals. This spectacular event, held during the “Settembre Astigiano”, is not just a festival; it’s a journey back in time, a celebration of country life and its customs, and an ode to Asti’s renowned gastronomy.
A Culinary Extravaganza in Italy’s Largest Open-Air Restaurant
Imagine a grand feast laid out in the heart of Asti, in the expansive Piazza Campo del Palio. This square is transformed into a traditional village for the festival, complete with brick houses, a church, a town hall, and even a post office. But the true star of this village is the food. From Saturday evening, more than forty Pro Loco associations set up stalls, each serving a unique dish from Asti’s culinary repertoire. Whether you fancy a plate of “agnolotti del plin”, a helping of “bagna cauda”, or a sweet slice of chocolate “bonèt”, this festival promises a gastronomic delight for every palate. These dishes, rich in history and flavor, are accompanied by glasses of D.O.C. or D.O.C.G. wine, capturing the essence of the region’s wine tradition.
Reliving Asti’s Rural Past with a Historic Parade
The Festival of Festivals also breathes life into Asti’s rural heritage. Come Sunday morning, the city’s cobbled streets echo with the sounds and sights of a grand parade. Over 3000 participants, dressed in period clothing, represent the life of peasants from times gone by. This parade is a moving tableau, showcasing the changing seasons and depicting the daily life of Asti’s ancestors. Antique tools, machinery from the pre-industrial era, and meticulously detailed costumes make this parade a living museum, painting a vivid picture of the region’s past. The weekend of September 9 and 10, 2023, promises to be a memorable one, with Asti offering a unique gastronomic and historical experience, unmatched anywhere in Italy.
The Origins of Asti’s Festival of Festivals: A Journey from 1966 to 1974
Asti’s Festival of Festivals is a renowned event that celebrates the rich history and culture of the Asti region in Italy. The festival has a long-standing tradition that dates back to its humble beginnings in 1966.
Prelude (1966-1974)
In the prelude years, a group of enthusiastic locals recognized the need to preserve and showcase the unique heritage of Asti. They sought to create a platform where the community could come together to celebrate their traditions, culinary delights, and artistic talents. Thus, the idea of the Festival of Festivals was born.
Inception and Early Years (1974-1977)
The festival officially began in 1974, marking the inception of an annual celebration that would captivate locals and tourists alike. The early years of the festival were marked by a modest scale, with a focus on showcasing the gastronomic specialties of Asti. Local chefs and restaurants participated in the festival, delighting visitors with their traditional dishes and innovative creations.
As the festival gained popularity, it expanded to include various cultural and artistic events. The streets of Asti came alive with parades, music performances, and exhibitions, creating a vibrant atmosphere that attracted people from far and wide.
The Origins of Asti’s Festival of Festivals highlight the community’s commitment to preserving their heritage and promoting cultural exchange. The festival has grown significantly over the years, reflecting the passion and dedication
Asti’s Festival of Festivals: Tracing its Inception and Early Years (1974-1977)
Asti’s Festival of Festivals, also known as the Asti Festival, has a rich history that dates back to its inception in the mid-1970s. This section will delve into the early years of the festival, exploring its origins and the events that shaped it into the grand celebration it is today.
The idea for the Asti Festival began to take shape in 1974, when a group of enthusiastic locals came together with the goal of creating a unique event that would showcase the cultural heritage and traditions of the Asti region in Italy. They envisioned a festival that would not only celebrate the local cuisine but also highlight the area’s rich history and vibrant community spirit. In its early years, the festival was a relatively modest affair, with a small number of food stalls and cultural performances. However, it quickly gained popularity among both locals and tourists, drawing in a growing number of visitors each year. The festival’s success can be attributed to its ability to capture the essence of Asti’s rich culinary tradition while also providing a platform for local artisans, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents.
During these early years, the festival organizers worked hard to create a diverse and exciting program that would appeal to a wide audience. Typical dishes from the Asti region were prominently featured, allowing visitors to savor the authentic flavors of the local cuisine. The festival also organized a vibrant parade, featuring colorful floats, traditional costumes, and lively music, which became one of the highlights of the event.
A Gastronomic Delight: Exploring the Typical Dishes of Asti’s Festival of Festivals
Asti’s Festival of Festivals is not only a celebration of culture and tradition but also a gastronomic delight. The festival showcases a wide array of typical dishes that represent the culinary heritage of the Asti region. Visitors to the festival are treated to an unforgettable experience of flavors, aromas, and textures that highlight the richness and diversity of the local cuisine.
One of the most renowned dishes of Asti’s Festival of Festivals is the Bagna Cauda. This hot dip is made from anchovies, garlic, olive oil, and butter, and it is traditionally served with a variety of vegetables such as cardoons, artichokes, and peppers. The Bagna Cauda is a true delicacy that perfectly combines the flavors of the sea and the earth, showcasing the region’s love for fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Another popular dish that takes center stage during the festival is the Asti-style risotto. This creamy and flavorful rice dish is cooked with a generous amount of butter and grated cheese, resulting in a rich and indulgent taste. The risotto is often prepared with local ingredients such as white truffles, mushrooms, or asparagus, further enhancing its unique and regional character. The festival also offers a chance to savor the traditional Piedmontese meat dishes. One such dish is the Brasato al Barbera, a slow-cooked beef roast marinated in Barbera wine, resulting in tender and succulent meat.
The Parade that Enchants: Unveiling the Spectacular Procession of Asti’s Festival of Festivals
One of the most anticipated and enchanting aspects of Asti’s Festival of Festivals is undoubtedly the grand parade that takes place during the celebration. This spectacular procession showcases the rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions of the region, captivating both locals and visitors alike.
The origins of the parade can be traced back to the early years of the festival, when it was first conceived in 1974. As the event gained popularity and recognition, the parade became an integral part of the festivities, symbolizing the unity and pride of the Asti community. The parade features a mesmerizing display of colorful floats, adorned with intricate decorations and vibrant motifs. These floats represent various themes, ranging from historical events to mythical tales, and are meticulously crafted by skilled artisans and volunteers. Each float is a work of art in itself, reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship of the participants.
As the procession winds its way through the streets of Asti, the atmosphere becomes electrifying. The air is filled with the sound of lively music and cheers from the crowd, creating a sense of joy and excitement. Spectators line the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the procession and to marvel at the beauty and grandeur of the floats. The parade also includes traditional dancers, musicians, and performers dressed in elaborate costumes, adding an element of theatricality to the event.
Celebrating Excellence: A Look at the Main Awards of Asti’s Festival of Festivals (1978-2006)
The Festival of Festivals in Asti has been celebrating culinary excellence for decades, providing a platform for talented chefs to showcase their skills and creativity. From 1978 to 2006, this festival witnessed some extraordinary talent and unforgettable dishes that left a lasting impression on both the judges and the attendees. During this time period, the festival introduced several main awards that recognized the best of the best in various categories. One of the most prestigious awards was the “Best Overall Dish,” which highlighted the chef who created the most outstanding and memorable dish of the festival. This award celebrated innovation, presentation, and of course, the taste.
Another notable category was the “Best Traditional Dish,” honoring the chef who successfully captured the essence of traditional Asti cuisine. This award aimed to preserve the region’s culinary heritage and showcase the skills of chefs who could masterfully recreate age-old recipes while adding their unique touch.
The festival also recognized the importance of pairing wine with food, and thus introduced the “Best Wine Pairing” award. This category celebrated the chef who perfectly matched their dish with a local wine, creating a harmonious and delightful dining experience for the judges and visitors alike.
Furthermore, the festival acknowledged the rising trend of vegetarian and vegan cuisine, introducing the “Best Plant-Based Dish” award. This category aimed to promote culinary creativity in vegetarian and vegan cooking and rewarded the chef who could create a dish that was not only delicious but also innovative and visually appealing.
Honoring Culinary Artistry: Unveiling the Main Awards of Asti’s Festival of Festivals (2007-2019)
The Festival of Festivals in Asti has been a celebration of culinary excellence for over four decades. In this article, we will delve into the main awards that have been a highlight of the festival from 2007 to 2019, honoring the artistry and talent of the participating chefs.
The festival has always aimed to showcase the best of Italian cuisine, and the main awards have been a testament to that. Each year, a panel of esteemed judges, comprising food critics, renowned chefs, and culinary experts, meticulously evaluate the dishes presented at the festival. These awards not only recognize the skill and creativity of the chefs but also serve as a platform for the promotion of regional and traditional Italian cuisine. The main awards of Asti’s Festival of Festivals have been highly coveted and prestigious. They have not only brought recognition to the winners but have also served as a benchmark for culinary excellence. The festival’s commitment to promoting Italian gastronomy is evident in the categories of the main awards.
The first category is the Best Overall Dish, which honors the chef who has displayed exceptional skills in creating a dish that harmonizes flavors, textures, and presentation. This award recognizes the chef’s ability to create a culinary masterpiece that represents the essence of Italian cuisine.
The second category is the Best Dessert, which celebrates the artistry of pastry chefs who have mastered the delicate balance of flavors and textures in creating sweet masterpieces. This award acknowledges the creativity and innovation of these chefs in the realm of desserts.
Exceptional Talents: Discovering the Specialty Awards of Asti’s Festival of Festivals (2007-2019)
The Asti’s Festival of Festivals has been celebrating the rich history and cultural heritage of the region for over five decades. From its humble beginnings in 1966 to its present-day grandeur, the festival has become a symbol of pride for the people of Asti and a highlight of the region’s calendar.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the festival is the Specialty Awards, which have been a part of the event since 2007. These awards highlight exceptional talents and innovative dishes that showcase the culinary expertise of the region. Each year, a panel of esteemed judges selects the winners in various categories, recognizing the outstanding contributions of chefs, restaurants, and food producers. The Specialty Awards of Asti’s Festival of Festivals have become a platform for discovering hidden gems and emerging talents in the culinary world. Over the years, these awards have helped to catapult many chefs and restaurants into the spotlight, bringing attention to their unique creations and innovative approaches to traditional dishes.
From 2007 to 2019, the festival has recognized a wide range of specialties, including traditional dishes with a modern twist, experimental fusion cuisine, and innovative gastronomic creations. These awards have showcased the diversity and creativity of the region’s culinary scene, attracting food enthusiasts and critics from around the world. The Specialty Awards: Single Dishes category has been particularly noteworthy, as it highlights individual dishes that have made a significant impact on the culinary landscape.
A Journey of Flavors: Exploring the Specialty Awards for Single Dishes at Asti’s Festival of Festivals (2007-2019)
The Asti’s Festival of Festivals has been a celebration of culinary excellence and cultural heritage for over four decades. From its humble beginnings in the 1960s to its current status as a prominent gastronomic event, this festival has continuously evolved and expanded to showcase the best of Italian cuisine.
One of the highlights of the festival is the Specialty Awards for Single Dishes, which have been a part of the event since 2007. These awards aim to recognize the exceptional talent and creativity of chefs who have crafted outstanding dishes that truly embody the essence of Italian flavors.
Over the years, the Specialty Awards for Single Dishes have become a journey of flavors, taking festival-goers on a gastronomic adventure through the diverse regions of Italy. From the rich and indulgent pasta dishes of Emilia-Romagna to the delicate seafood creations of Liguria, each dish tells a story of the region it represents.
One of the most coveted awards in this category is the Best Pasta Dish award. This award recognizes the chefs who have mastered the art of pasta-making, creating dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. From traditional classics like carbonara and lasagna to innovative creations featuring unique ingredients and flavor combinations, the Best Pasta Dish award highlights the versatility and creativity of Italian cuisine.
Another noteworthy award in this category is the Best Seafood Dish. Italy’s long coastline and abundant seafood resources make it a paradise for seafood lovers, and the festival showcases the very best of these coastal delights. From succulent grilled prawns to delicate
Beyond Culinary: Exploring Other Awards at Asti’s Festival of Festivals (2002-2019)
The Asti’s Festival of Festivals is not just about culinary excellence, but also celebrates various other achievements and talents. From 2002 to 2019, the festival introduced a range of other awards to recognize individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the arts, culture, and society.
One notable award is the “Outstanding Contribution to the Arts” category, which acknowledges individuals or organizations that have made a lasting impact on the artistic landscape. This award has been given to renowned painters, sculptors, musicians, writers, and actors, honoring their exceptional talent and dedication.
Another category that has gained popularity over the years is the “Community Service Award.” This award recognizes individuals or groups that have made a significant difference in their communities through acts of kindness, philanthropy, and social activism. It celebrates those who have selflessly devoted their time and resources to improve the lives of others.
The festival also introduced the “Innovation Award” to honor pioneers and visionaries who have revolutionized their respective fields. This category celebrates individuals and companies that have pushed the boundaries of technology, science, and business, shaping the future with their groundbreaking ideas and inventions.
The “Lifetime Achievement Award” is another prestigious category, bestowed upon individuals who have dedicated their lives to a particular field and achieved extraordinary success. This award recognizes the immense contributions and lasting legacies left by these individuals, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence.
Additionally, there are awards that focus on promoting cultural diversity and understanding. The “Global Harmony Award” celebrates individuals
Stars and Celebrities: A Historic Account of the Esteemed Guests at Asti’s Festival of Festivals
Asti’s Festival of Festivals has always been a prominent event that attracts stars and celebrities from all over the world. Since its inception in 1974, the festival has gained a reputation for its grandeur and glamour, making it a favorite among renowned personalities. During the festival’s early years, from 1974 to 1977, several notable figures graced the event. Renowned actors, musicians, and artists were captivated by the festival’s unique blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. As word spread about the festival’s charm, more and more celebrities began attending, adding to its prestige.
From 1978 to 2006, the festival witnessed the presence of numerous A-list celebrities. Hollywood stars, international musicians, and acclaimed artists were among the esteemed guests who flocked to Asti’s Festival of Festivals. Their attendance not only added glamour to the event but also brought attention to the city of Asti and its rich cultural heritage.
In 2007, the festival introduced specialty awards to recognize outstanding contributions in various fields. This brought in a new wave of celebrities who were honored for their exceptional achievements. Actors, directors, chefs, and other prominent figures from the entertainment industry became regular attendees, making the festival a hub for talent and creativity. The festival’s specialty awards also included recognition for single dishes, highlighting the culinary excellence of renowned chefs. This attracted renowned food critics, culinary experts, and food enthusiasts, who joined the festivities to experience the finest gastronomic delights.
In conclusion
Asti’s Festival of Festivals is a rich tapestry of history, gastronomy, and celebration. From its humble beginnings in 1966 to its status as a renowned culinary event, this festival has captivated the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike. The typical dishes of Asti, showcased during the festival, offer a tantalizing glimpse into the region’s culinary heritage. The spectacular parade brings the streets alive with color and enchantment, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
The main awards, spanning several decades, have recognized and celebrated excellence in the culinary arts, while the specialty awards have honored exceptional talents and single dishes. Additionally, the festival has extended its recognition to other areas beyond the culinary realm, highlighting the diverse talents and achievements of individuals.
Throughout its history, Asti’s Festival of Festivals has attracted stars and celebrities, adding an extra touch of glamour and prestige to the event. As we reflect on the rich history and vibrant traditions of Asti’s Festival of Festivals, we can only anticipate the future and the continued celebration of food, culture, and community.
