Canastrel Festival

The Canastrel Festival in Montanaro

In the heart of the Canavese, just a few kilometers from Turin, the town of Montanaro dedicates a festival every late May to its most iconic product: the canastrel. Established in 1991 and organized by the Pro Loco Montanaro Tourist Association with the patronage of the Municipality, the Canastrel Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the province of Turin, drawing visitors from all over Piedmont.

What is a canastrel?

The canastrel (or canestrello) is a thin, fragrant sweet wafer with a surface that mimics the woven pattern of a wicker basket. Families in Montanaro have been making them by hand since the 1800s, when they were traditionally given as wedding gifts. Since 2005, this traditional pastry has been included in the Paniere dei Prodotti Tipici della Provincia di Torino, a recognition that protects the recipe passed down through generations, now also available in variations like cocoa.

Gastronomy and conviviality

The festival is above all a grand village celebration dedicated to good food. Under covered pavilions and along the town streets, gastronomic evenings feature fried fish, grilled meats, paella, and classic Piedmontese dishes, naturally accompanied by canastrel in all its forms. Dinner reservations are generally required, reflecting the event's immense popularity.

Music, dancing, and markets

The evenings come alive with ballroom dance orchestras and musical groups that keep the squares dancing until late. Sunday is dedicated to the Canastrel Market in Piazza Luigi Massa, featuring local products and crafts, cultural walks to discover the Montanaro Baroque style and votive shrines, and attractions like carriage rides. For children, there is a funfair open for the entire duration of the event.

An opportunity to discover the Canavese

Key landmarks of the festival include Piazza Luigi Massa and the charming Parco del Castello dei Conti Frola. Visiting Montanaro during the Canastrel Festival means immersing yourself in the traditions of the Canavese, a land rich in history, Baroque architecture, and authentic flavors, just a short distance from the Piedmontese capital.