Arrosticino Festival

The Arrosticino Festival of Serramonacesca

In the heart of Abruzzo, at the foot of the Majella massif, the town of Serramonacesca (Province of Pescara) hosts the Arrosticino Festival every summer, a celebration dedicated to the most iconic dish of the regional cuisine. Organized by the Pro Loco of Serramonacesca, the event transforms the Piazza della Libertà festival area into a large popular gathering where the aroma of mutton skewers cooking over the coals dominates the evening.

The arrosticino, symbol of Abruzzo

The absolute star is the arrosticino, a skewer of mutton cut into small cubes and cooked on the typical fornacella, the long channel grill that allows dozens of skewers to be prepared at once. Born from Abruzzo's pastoral tradition, the arrosticino is now the true gastronomic emblem of the region: at the festival, it is served hot and in abundance, accompanied by bread, olive oil, local wine, and beer.

What to expect

• Food stalls with freshly cooked arrosticini and local specialties
• Wine, beer, and traditional Abruzzese products
• Live music and DJ sets
• A convivial, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of the village

Serramonacesca, village of the monks

The very name of Serramonacesca — from "serra" (the mountain) and the monks — tells of the village's vocation, famous for the nearby Abbey of San Liberatore a Majella, one of the oldest Benedictine monasteries in Abruzzo, built at the beginning of the 11th century near the springs of the Alento river. Attending the festival is also the perfect opportunity to discover this authentic corner of the Majella National Park, amidst nature, medieval history, and popular traditions.

A highlight of the Abruzzo summer

Now in its several editions, the Arrosticino Festival has established itself as one of the most anticipated gastronomic events of the summer in the Pescara area, attracting visitors from neighboring towns thanks to the quality of the product and the hospitality of the local community.