Bombetta Festival

The festival celebrating the bombetta of Martina Franca

In the heart of the Itria Valley, in Martina Franca (Province of Taranto, Apulia), the Bombetta Festival pays tribute to one of the most iconic dishes of Apulian cuisine. The bombetta is a small pork roll, often stuffed with cheese (typically caciocavallo or scamorza) and seasoned with spices, then strictly cooked over charcoal: a true expression of local identity that, in Martina Franca—the home of the "fornello" butcher shops—has a unique history and culture all its own.

Piazza d'Angiò, the heart of the event

The festival takes place in Piazza Filippo d'Angiò, which for the occasion turns into an oasis of flavors, music, and culture. The food stalls are exclusively reserved for butchers and industry professionals, who offer the bombetta in all its variations, from the most classic to the most innovative. The event opens in the evening and admission is completely free, creating a village fair atmosphere that goes beyond the concept of a simple food festival.

Music, charcoal, and tradition

Each evening is accompanied by free concerts spanning various genres: from 70s and 90s hits to traditional folk music. The event thus combines the taste of charcoal-grilled meat with the conviviality of the town square, attracting a large and diverse audience.

More than just food: culture and awards

Alongside the gastronomic experience, the Bombetta Festival includes a moment of cultural reflection with a workshop dedicated to traditional agri-food products as an opportunity for regional development, bringing together representatives from institutions, the agri-food sector, and universities. During the event, two historic local awards are also presented: the Ninuccio Lasorte Award, for the promotion of the bombetta and local products, and the Vito Serio Award, dedicated to masters of the grill.

A young but already deep-rooted tradition

Founded recently—the first edition was held in the autumn of 2024—the festival has already established itself as a prominent event for Martina Franca, capable of enhancing the bond between the Itria Valley town and its gastronomic excellence. An event that unites the pride of local butchers with the desire to share the authentic soul of this corner of Apulia with visitors.