Autumn Frog Festival of Poggio Renatico

Autumn frogs in Poggio Renatico

As the evenings get cooler, in Poggio Renatico, in the lowlands of the province of Ferrara, the autumn event of the Frog Festival returns. This is the indoor and heated version of the famous summer festival: the same love for tradition, the same genuine cuisine, but in a heated tent that allows you to enjoy the dishes even in bad weather. The event is held at Parco 1° Maggio, along Via San Carlo, and is organized by volunteers from the Polisportiva Chiesa Nuova.

A history born from a trattoria

The festival has its roots in the historic trattoria Il Girino, a landmark in the town for frog specialties for generations. After the closure of the restaurant, the community wanted to take up the mantle and carry on that long tradition, now linked to the very name of the town. The proceeds from the festival support the sports and cultural activities of the Polisportiva, a virtuous example of village volunteering typical of Emilia-Romagna.

What to eat

The absolute star is the frog, prepared in all its versions of Ferrara cuisine:

• First courses: frog risotto, frog tagliolines, frog tortellinos, and the classic trio of soups
• Second courses: fried frogs, breaded frogs, stewed frogs, and the frog trio
• Alternative menus: mixed fried fish, baked lasagna, braised pork shank, sausage, side dishes, and desserts for those who prefer fish or meat

Atmosphere and music

Every evening, dinner is accompanied by live music from orchestras, in the full style of Emilia village festivals, with dancing, conviviality, and the warm hospitality of the many volunteers. It's an opportunity to discover an iconic local dish in an authentic atmosphere, far from mass tourist circuits.

An event for the whole region

The Autumn Frog Festival is now a fixed date on the autumn gastronomic calendar of the province of Ferrara and attracts thousands of visitors from all over Emilia-Romagna every year. For those who cannot stay, there is also a takeaway option.