The warm colors of nature shift from the greens of the summer months to the orange, yellow, and brown tones: autumn is undoubtedly one of the best times to travel. Among the destinations we suggest exploring, are the areas around Rome, the ideal location to immerse yourself in local traditions through the sagre, typical folk festivals that celebrate the authentic flavors of the land and the ancient customs of small villages. September and October, in particular, are months rich in food and wine events where good food and a convivial atmosphere take center stage. In this article, we recommend some must-see sagre located just a few kilometers from Rome.
1. Grape Festival – Marino (September)
…as the famous Roman folk song goes, “Lo vedi, ecco Marino, la sagra c’è dell’uva…”. This is undoubtedly one of the most famous sagre in Lazio; the Grape Festival of Marino is held every September and is dedicated to the grape harvest and the celebration of wine. This festival has ancient origins, dating back to 1925, and has become a fixed event for wine lovers.
Fun Facts:
- Fountains flowing with wine: One of the most unique aspects of the festival is that during the event, some of the town’s fountains, including the famous Fontana dei Quattro Mori, are filled with wine instead of water. An incredible sight not to be missed.
- Historical Parade: The festival also includes a historical re-enactment celebrating the victory of the Battle of Lepanto (1571), led by Marcantonio Colonna, with costume parades and allegorical floats.
- Wine and local products tasting: In addition to enjoying the wine from the Castelli Romani region, during the festival, you can savor typical products like porchetta, cheese, and local desserts.
2. Chestnut Festival – Vallerano (October)
October is the perfect month to enjoy chestnuts, and the Chestnut Festival in Vallerano, a small village on the Monti Cimini, is one of the most renowned in Lazio. This small medieval town transforms to celebrate the quintessential autumn fruit in grand style.
Fun Facts:
- DOP Chestnuts: The chestnuts from Vallerano are a DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) product, recognized for their quality and sweetness. During the festival, you can enjoy them roasted, boiled, or incorporated into various local dishes, such as desserts and jams.
- Guided tours and folklore: In addition to tasting stalls, guided tours through the chestnut groves and the town’s streets are organized, enriched by popular music performances and traditional dances.
- Autumn flavors: Besides chestnuts, you can sample other typical autumn products such as porcini mushrooms, honey, and extra virgin olive oil.
3. Porcini Mushroom Festival – Lariano (September)
From chestnuts to mushrooms. If you’re a fan of this delicacy, the Porcini Mushroom Festival in Lariano, about an hour from Rome, is the perfect event. This festival is a tribute to porcini mushrooms, which are featured in numerous local dishes.
Fun Facts:
- Porcini pasta and pizza: The festival offers a wide variety of dishes based on porcini mushrooms, ranging from traditional Italian recipes like fettuccine and gnocchi to wood-fired pizza with mushrooms and local cheeses.
- Giant Mushroom Contest: Each year, there’s a contest to award the biggest and best porcini mushroom found in the local woods, a true trophy for enthusiasts.
- Forest excursions: During the festival, excursions in the surrounding forests are organized to search for mushrooms. These walks are done safely, accompanied by experts who explain how to recognize and collect them without any risks.
4. Polenta Festival – Nerola (October)
Chestnuts, mushrooms, and… polenta! With the arrival of autumn, polenta becomes the star of the show at the Polenta Festival in Nerola, a perfect opportunity to discover this traditional dish of Lazio cuisine.
Fun Facts:
- Polenta with ribs and sausage sauce: The festival’s main dish is polenta served with a sauce made from pork ribs and sausages, a classic of the local peasant tradition that warms the heart and fills the stomach on cool autumn days.
- Medieval atmosphere: The village of Nerola, with its charming castle, provides the backdrop to this popular festival, complete with flag-waving performances and folk music.
- Craft markets: During the festival, you can stroll among stalls offering typical products and local crafts, perfect for taking home a memento of the day.
5. New Olive Oil Festival – Palombara Sabina (October)
October is also the month of new olive oil, and the New Olive Oil Festival in Palombara Sabina celebrates one of Lazio’s most precious products: extra virgin olive oil.
Fun Facts:
- Open Oil Mills: During the festival, local oil mills open their doors to visitors, offering the opportunity to witness the olive pressing process and taste the freshly produced oil, known for its intense and fruity flavor.
- Tastings and guided tours: The historic center of Palombara Sabina fills with food and wine stands where you can not only sample the oil but also typical products like homemade bread, cheese, and cured meats.
- Walks through olive groves: Walks through the centuries-old olive groves are organized, accompanied by experts who explain the techniques of olive cultivation and harvesting.
Tips for Enjoying the Festivals
- Arrive early: Festivals can be very crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving early will help you find parking and enjoy the event without too much hassle.
- Take your time: Don’t rush; enjoy multiple dishes. Each festival offers a wide selection of local specialties, so take advantage and make it a full gastronomic experience.
- Explore the surroundings: It’s not just about food: many festivals take place in medieval villages rich in history. In addition to participating in the event, take the opportunity to explore and discover hidden corners and breathtaking views.
Conclusion
The autumn festivals of September and October near Rome are the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and culinary traditions of Lazio, discovering authentic flavors and fascinating landscapes. Whether you’re a lover of good food or genuine wine, these festivals, rooted in ancient customs, will give you a unique experience, full of conviviality, good food, and fun.
