Chestnut Festival

An autumn festival in the heart of the Sabina region

The Chestnut Festival in Ascrea is one of the most cherished autumn events in the Lake Turano area, in the province of Rieti. Every year, at the beginning of November, this small village perched at an altitude of 757 meters comes alive to celebrate the fruit that defines its woods: the Cicolano red chestnut, the true autumn princess of the local chestnut groves. The event, which reached its twelfth edition in 2025, is organized by the Ascrea Pro Loco and transforms the central Piazza Mareri into a vibrant festival space, complete with food stalls, long communal tables, and music.

The taste of chestnuts and tradition

The heart of the festival is its gastronomy. Under a large marquee set up in the square, a lunch is served that brings together the genuine flavors of the Rieti territory: pasta all'amatriciana, roasted sausage with sides, the essential paper cone of roasted chestnuts, and traditional chestnut desserts, all accompanied by water and local red wine. Throughout the day, visitors can also purchase bags of fresh chestnuts and other themed products, taking home a genuine souvenir of the Sabina region.

• Featured product: the Cicolano red chestnut
• Typical dishes: amatriciana, roasted sausage, roasted chestnuts, chestnut desserts
• Live music with local bands accompanying lunch and the afternoon
• Direct sales of chestnuts and autumn products

Ascrea and Lake Turano

Ascrea is a tiny municipality in Lazio overlooking the waters of Lake Turano, one of the most picturesque basins in the Rieti Apennines. The village, immersed in woods and trails, is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic experience away from the main tourist routes. The Chestnut Festival is the perfect opportunity to discover this corner of the Sabina, combining good food with walks along the lake and exploration of the village. To reach the historic center, a free shuttle service is often organized from the parking lots along the provincial road.

A community celebration

More than just a gastronomic event, the Chestnut Festival is a moment of conviviality that brings together residents, families, and visitors around a product that defines their identity. Between the scent of roasted chestnuts, music, and chatter under the marquee, the event tells the story of the deep bond between the community of Ascrea and its territory, during one of the most beautiful seasons to visit the villages of the Rieti area.