Cavatello Festival

The tastiest village festival in Castelfranco di Sotto

When July arrives, the Contrada San Michele in Caprugnana fires up the stoves and opens the doors of its headquarters at Via Romeo Biagi 6, in Castelfranco di Sotto, in the province of Pisa. This is the home of the Cavatello Festival, one of those district celebrations that captures the convivial soul of small-town Tuscany better than any guidebook: long tables under string lights, the aroma of simmering sauces, neighborhood chatter, and the joy of a community cooking for everyone.

Cavatello: A meeting of Molise and Tuscany

The absolute star is the cavatello, a fresh pasta native to Molise that here, in the lower Valdarno, is served with traditional Tuscan ragùs and sauces. It is precisely this fusion of the South and Tuscany that makes the festival so special: a popular, genuine dish, handmade and served in generous portions alongside many other local specialties. The food stalls open every evening, offering various cavatello-based dishes with the simple, familiar service typical of festivals run by district volunteers.

Live music every night

The festival is about more than just great food: every evening is brought to life by live music, accompanying dinners and extending the conviviality late into the night. It is the perfect opportunity to dance, listen, and gather outdoors on warm summer nights in a relaxed atmosphere suitable for everyone, from families to groups of friends.

One district, one history

Behind the Cavatello Festival is the Contrada San Michele in Caprugnana, one of the four districts that drive the civic life of Castelfranco di Sotto. Caprugnana is mentioned in Lucca Diocese documents as far back as 951 and gives its name to the tower and gate that once looked toward Montefalcone, as well as the district extending north of the historic center. The four districts—San Michele in Caprugnana, San Martino in Catiana, San Bartolomeo a Paterno, and San Pietro a Vigesimo—compete every year in the evocative Palio dei Barchini con le Ruote, a unique historical pageant commemorating the activity of the 'renaioli' (sand diggers) on the Arno River. The summer festival is also a way to support the district's activities and keep this neighborhood identity alive.

Why it's worth a visit

The Cavatello Festival is the classic event to experience without rushing: you arrive, take a seat, eat well for a modest price, and end the evening with some music. It is the perfect appointment to discover the most authentic, non-touristy Tuscany—the one found in the towns of the lower Valdarno and the leather district, far from the crowded routes but rich in traditions and good food.