Chianina Steak Festival
The Chianina steak on Italy's largest grill, in the Etruscan heart of Cortona
About Chianina Steak Festival
The Chianina Steak Festival in Cortona
The Chianina Steak Festival is one of the most anticipated culinary events of the Tuscan summer. Established in 1960, it is one of the region's oldest and most glorious festivals: for over sixty years, it has drawn thousands of visitors to Cortona, in the province of Arezzo, all eager to taste an authentic Florentine-style steak in a truly genuine setting.
Italy's largest grill
The heart of the festival is its legendary grill, over 14 meters long: the largest operational one in Italy. On these massive embers, they cook the Chianina steak, sourced from the prized native cattle breed of the Val di Chiana, a symbol of Tuscan gastronomic excellence. The meat, weighing approximately 750-800 grams per serving, is served strictly rare and seasoned with coarse salt, in keeping with tradition.
Where it takes place
The event is held at the Giardini del Parterre, in the heart of Cortona's historic center, inside the ancient Etruscan walls. The setting is evocative: open-air tables, the scent of charcoal, and the convivial atmosphere of a true village feast, just a short walk from the medieval alleys of one of Tuscany's most fascinating art cities.
A Cortona tradition
More than just a food festival, this event is a cornerstone of the local identity: it is organized by local associations and sports clubs with the support of the municipal administration, and part of the proceeds supports local activities. Alongside the tastings, every evening the Giardini del Parterre come alive with free concerts and musical nights, ranging from vintage rock'n'roll to dance parties, making the festival a destination for all ages.
What to eat
- Grilled Chianina steak, served rare (approx. 750-800g)
- Traditional Tuscan side dishes
- Local bread and wine
- Children's menu with simpler options
The Chianina Steak Festival is the perfect opportunity to discover the authentic flavors of the Val di Chiana and experience Cortona during the liveliest time of the year, the Ferragosto holiday.
Chianina Steak Festival — edition 2026
The 65th edition of the Chianina Steak Festival is scheduled in Cortona (AR) from August 11 to 15, 2026, at the Giardini del Parterre. As per tradition, the absolute star is the Chianina steak cooked rare on a grill over 14 meters long, the largest in Italy.
The event confirms its established format: evening dining with a steak menu (€39) and a children's menu (€18), accompanied by free musical evenings at the Giardini del Parterre. The detailed program of the evenings and musical guests will be announced by the organization in the weeks leading up to the event, typically in July. Tickets will also be available for purchase online on the official website.
Programme Chianina Steak Festival 2026
The detailed program for the 65th edition (musical evenings, guests, and initiatives) will be announced by the organization in the weeks leading up to the event, roughly in July 2026.
The usual structure of the event includes every evening, for all five days:
- Evening opening of the food stand with the cooking of Chianina steak on the 14-meter grill
- Open-air table service at the Giardini del Parterre
- Free live musical entertainment (concerts and dance nights)
Highlights Chianina Steak Festival 2026
- 65th edition of one of Tuscany's longest-running festivals
- Italy's largest operational grill, over 14 meters long
- Rare Chianina steak according to ancient Tuscan tradition
- Free musical evenings in the heart of Cortona
Prices Chianina Steak Festival 2026
Practical information — Chianina Steak Festival
How to get there
Cortona can be reached by car from the Valdichiana exit on the A1 motorway (about 20 minutes). By train, the reference station is Camucia-Cortona, connected to the historic center by local buses. The Giardini del Parterre are located in the historic center.
Hours
The festival takes place in the evening, roughly from 6:00 PM until late, for the entire duration of the event.
Prices
Steak menu at €39 (Chianina steak, side dish, water, bread). Children's menu at €18 (burger, fries, drink or water). Tickets can be purchased online on the official website.
Tips
Table reservations are reserved for large groups; small groups can find seating freely. During the Ferragosto days, it is advisable to arrive early and book accommodation in the area well in advance.
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Where does it take place — Chianina Steak Festival
Giardini del Parterre
Giardini del Parterre, 52044 Cortona