Bellante in Castagna – Polenta Festival

An autumnal tradition in the Teramo area

The Polenta Festival, also known as Bellante in Castagna, is one of the most cherished gastronomic events of the autumn in the municipality of Bellante, in the province of Teramo, Abruzzo. Launched in 2010 and organized by the Pro Loco Bellante APS with the support of local volunteers, the event takes place in the historic center of Bellante Paese, the hilltop village overlooking the Val Vibrata, offering panoramic views that stretch from the hills to the Adriatic Sea.

The star of the show: polenta

The absolute protagonist is polenta, cooked according to traditional Abruzzese peasant recipes and served in several variations. The most famous is the red polenta, seasoned with a rich sauce of sausage and pork ribs, but there is also white polenta with mushrooms and bacon, as well as a version with salt cod. Each dish tells the story of the simple, generous cuisine of this corner of Abruzzo, where bold flavors meet the warmth of community.

Beyond polenta: autumn flavors

Alongside the signature dish, the food stalls offer the best of local produce:

• Arrosticini, the quintessential Abruzzese sheep meat skewers
• Roasted chestnuts, the true stars of the season
• Sausage sandwiches, chips, and fried dough (frittelle)
• Fried cheese and other traditional specialties
• New wine from the region, the perfect companion for the festivities

Atmosphere and local identity

The festival is more than just a food event: it is a moment that unites the generations of Bellante and celebrates local identity. Service takes place in covered and heated areas, with table service, allowing guests to enjoy the festivities even on the crispest November evenings. The nights come alive with music and entertainment, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes both locals and visitors from neighboring towns.

An unmissable event

Reaching its fifteenth edition in 2025, the Bellante Polenta Festival confirms its role as a landmark for lovers of traditional Abruzzese cuisine. For those visiting the Teramo area in autumn, it represents an authentic opportunity to discover the flavors, aromas, and warm hospitality of a small village in the province of Teramo.