When autumn envelops the region's hills and villages, the earth releases a sweet, captivating fruit: the chestnut. In Campania, the festivals dedicated to this fruit are more than just a gastronomic celebration—they are moments of remembrance, identity, and community encounters. Campania's chestnut festivals enliven towns and valleys, offering visitors not only roasted chestnuts and traditional dishes, but also opportunities to discover lesser-known places, local traditions, and ancient stories. In this article, I'll take you on a journey through three unmissable events: two that have already passed but are steeped in history, and one that is gearing up for intense moments in the 2025 season.
Past festivals that have left their mark
In recent years, some chestnut festivals in Campania have become true symbols of autumn in the region.
- The 40th edition of the Chestnut Festival was held in Summonte, in the province of Avellino, on the weekend of October 12-13, 2024. The medieval village was bathed in autumnal colors, with folk music, games, and tastings along the streets of the center.
- In Montella, famous for its PGI chestnuts, the 2024 festival took place over two weekends, from November 1st to 3rd and from November 8th to 10th: a now well-established event that combines tastings, shows, and promotion of the local area.
- In 2024, Roccamonfina also hosted the IGP Chestnut and Porcini Mushroom Festival: every weekend in October, food stands, cooking demonstrations, markets, and shows enlivened the woods and squares.
These events, now in the past, have contributed to consolidating the autumnal appeal of the region and to strengthening the circuit of chestnut festivals in Campania.
The 2025 festivals not to be missed
Here are three events scheduled for 2025 that deserve special mention:
Chestnut and Hazelnut Festival — Avella (AV)
It will take place on the weekends of 10-12 and 17-19 October 2025.
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PGI Chestnut and Porcini Mushroom Festival — Roccamonfina (CE)
From October 4th to November 2nd, 2025, the stands will open every Saturday and Sunday starting at 10:00 am, offering chestnut and mushroom dishes, music, family activities, and special evenings.
Chestnut Festival — Sicignano degli Alburni (SA)
The 53rd edition will be held from October 18th to 26th, 2025, in Piazza Biagio Germano, with food stands, roasted chestnuts, and entertainment throughout the day. The event is free to attend.
Other interesting events reported for 2025 in the region:
- Calvanico (SA): The 40th Chestnut Festival will be held on October 5, 2025.
- Cassano Irpino: Chestnut Festival scheduled for October 11-12, 2025.
- Arpaise (BN): 24th edition of the Chestnut Festival, scheduled for 11-12 October 2025 (with gastronomic specialties and local crafts).
These events strengthen the panorama of chestnut festivals in Campania, offering geographical variety and rich programs.
Practical tips for choosing and experiencing chestnut festivals in Campania
When deciding which event to visit, keep in mind some criteria that will enrich the experience:
- Season and climate: Festivals are concentrated between mid-October and November. Always check the local official calendar and consider the weather forecast, as many activities take place outdoors.
- Variety of gastronomic offerings: some festivals offer only roasted chestnuts, others include innovative chestnut-based dishes (desserts, soups, chestnut beer, etc.).
- Collateral programs: festivals offering music, exhibitions, workshops, or walks in the woods allow you to enrich your visit with cultural and touristic aspects.
- Accessibility and logistics: Check opening hours, parking (there may be special rates), nearby accommodations, and payment methods at the stands.
- Local roots and authenticity: Choose festivals that are rooted in the local area and the community: these often offer a more authentic experience, far removed from overly "commercial" formats.
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