Callarosta Festival

The Callarosta Festival in Carpineto Romano

In the heart of the Lepini Mountains, in the province of Rome, the medieval village of Carpineto Romano celebrates its most precious treasure every autumn: the chestnut. The Callarosta Festival — taking its name from the local dialect word for chestnuts roasted over glowing embers — is one of the most cherished food and wine events in the Lepini region, a weekend where the entire town gathers around smoking braziers and the flavors of rural tradition.

The Chestnut: The Absolute Star

Roasted chestnuts are the undisputed symbol of the event: cooked in large perforated pans and served piping hot with local wine, they tell the ancient story of the bond between Carpineto Romano and its chestnut groves. Alongside the chestnuts, food stalls and district taverns offer typical Lepini cuisine, from polenta to traditional desserts, creating a culinary journey through the streets and squares of the historic center.

The Seven Districts and the Folklore of the Pallio

The festival is deeply intertwined with the town's identity and the Ente Pallio della Carriera: it is the seven historic districts that bring the taverns and streets of the village to life. The days are marked by the parade of the Pallio Drummers and the performances of flag-wavers and musicians, who bring the colors and sounds of the districts through the medieval alleys. Live folk music accompanies the evenings in Piazza Regina Margherita, the beating heart of the festival.

A Village to Discover

The Callarosta Festival is also the perfect opportunity to visit Carpineto Romano, the birthplace of Pope Leo XIII. During the event, historic palaces, churches, and city museums open their doors — from the Civic Museum "La Reggia dei Volsci" to the house museums — while the LepinArt craft market showcases the creations of local artisans. Strolling through the stone alleys with a paper cone of chestnuts and a glass of wine is the best way to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of a town in Upper Lazio.

When It Takes Place

The festival is traditionally held around All Saints' Day, between late October and early November. The 2025 edition took place on November 1st and 2nd; admission to the event is always free, with tastings available for purchase at the taverns and stalls. An unmissable appointment for those who love authentic festivals, Lepini tradition, and the flavors of the Roman autumn.