Arrosticino Festival

The Arrosticino Festival in Villa Celiera

In the heart of the municipality of Villa Celiera, a mountain village in the Province of Pescara perched on the slopes of the Gran Sasso, the Arrosticino Festival celebrates Abruzzo's signature dish: the arrosticino, a small sheep meat skewer cooked over the embers of the characteristic canaletta. Villa Celiera has long been considered a cradle of this specialty, and the event was created to pay homage to a strictly handmade product that embodies the region's pastoral culture.

A contest of taste and creativity

The festival is more than just a food fair: at its core lies a genuine culinary competition. About a dozen contestants from all over Abruzzo challenge each other by preparing arrosticini in classic or innovative ways, pairing them with bread, local products, and creative accompaniments. The dishes are judged by a technical jury composed of leading arrosticini producers and gastronomy professionals, who evaluate taste, presentation, and ingredient quality. The winner receives the prestigious Spiedì Trophy, while other awards recognize the best balance of flavors and the most creative presentation.

An event rooted in the territory

Promoted by the Cultour Celiera Association with the patronage of the Municipality of Villa Celiera, the festival debuted in 2024 to great acclaim. Early editions saw restaurateurs and enthusiasts from the Pescara and Teramo hinterlands triumph, cementing the event as one of the most anticipated gastronomic gatherings of the Abruzzo mountain summer.

Atmosphere and setting

The evening blends the charm of the cool mountain climate with the warmth of a village festival: the glowing embers in Piazza Nuova, red wines from local cellars, the aromas of traditional cuisine, and live music that keeps the crowd entertained until late. The Arrosticino Festival is a perfect opportunity to discover an authentic corner of inland Abruzzo, characterized by genuine flavors, mountain hospitality, and the pride of a community deeply connected to its pastoral roots.

Why attend

• Savor arrosticini prepared by the best masters in Abruzzo
• Watch the live competition unfold over the canaletta
• Explore the mountain village of Villa Celiera and its traditions
• Enjoy an evening of flavor, music, and conviviality