Cacciucco Festival — Democratic Party Feast

A seafood festival in the heart of the Valdichiana

The Cacciucco Festival is one of the most beloved summer events in Foiano della Chiana, in the province of Arezzo. It takes place in the hamlet of Renzino, at the sports complex, and is organized as part of the traditional Democratic Party Feast promoted by the local Democratic Party. For two consecutive weeks in July, from Wednesday to Sunday, the town transforms into a large, convivial gathering where great food meets music and joy.

Cacciucco: the star of the table

The festival's signature dish is, of course, cacciucco, the famous fish stew from the Tuscan coastal tradition, prepared here by volunteer cooks with care and generosity. Alongside the cacciucco, the food stalls offer a wide selection of seafood specialties, as well as pizza, sandwiches, and a bar. It is both curious and wonderful that such a generous seafood festival originates in the inland Valdichiana, far from the sea: a testament to how deeply seafood cuisine has become part of Tuscany's culinary heritage.

Music, ballroom dancing, and shows

Every evening, after the stalls open, the main stage hosts dance nights featuring ballroom orchestras, a timeless genre that attracts enthusiasts from all over the area. There are also evenings dedicated to disco music and shows designed for children, such as magic acts. The atmosphere is that of a typical village fair: simple, welcoming, and open to all ages.

Spaces for families and youth

The Cacciucco Festival is designed for the whole family. There is a children's area with a playroom, a games area, a book corner, and a youth space managed by the Young Democrats, featuring themed parties and sports tournaments like five-a-side football and volleyball. For the little ones, there is also a funfair with bumper cars, making the Renzino area even more festive.

A community tradition

More than just a food festival, this event represents a meeting point for the community of Foiano della Chiana and neighboring towns. The proceeds support the organizing association's activities, and the event has been a staple of the Arezzo summer for years, successfully blending fine dining, popular music, and civic engagement into one great outdoor celebration.