Cioccolata a Squajo Festival

Cioccolata a squajo: a Tuscania tradition

Cioccolata a squajo is a specialty of Tuscania, in the province of Viterbo. It is an exceptionally thick and velvety hot chocolate, made by melting—or 'squajare' in the local dialect—high-quality chocolate until it reaches a rich, creamy consistency. The recipe, passed down through generations and prepared during the festival following the secret formula of 'Nonna Maria', dates back to the 20th century, when this chocolate and biscuit pairing was the region's finest wedding treat. Today, it stands as a symbol of Tuscania's hospitality and community spirit.

The Festival

The Cioccolata a Squajo Festival takes place every year in mid-October in the historic center of Tuscania. It is organized by the Pro Loco of Tuscania APS with the support of the Municipality and local associations. In 2025, the event celebrated its 17th edition, cementing its place as one of the most beloved autumn gatherings in the Tuscia region and across Lazio. For two days, Piazza Italia and the town's alleys come alive with steaming chocolate, artisanal biscuits, traditional sweets, craft markets, a funfair, and live music.

Typical Weekend Program

The heart of the festival is the distribution of ciocolata a squajo in Piazza Italia, starting Saturday afternoon and continuing throughout Sunday. A rich calendar of events revolves around the steaming cups:

• Market and Funfair — Stalls featuring local Tuscia crafts and products, rides for children, and face painting by the Italian Red Cross;
• Live Music — Afternoon performances, evening folk concerts, and DJ sets to close out the Sunday festivities;
• Culture and Archaeology — Exhibitions at the National Archaeological Museum, guided tours of Etruscan treasures, and walks through the medieval village with chocolate tastings;
• Vintage Cars — A gathering and exhibition of classic cars along Viale Trieste.

Recent editions have also introduced the 'HotChocolate Culture' space, featuring book presentations, seminars, and musical moments, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the local parish Caritas.

Tuscania: an Etruscan and Medieval Gem

The festival is the perfect opportunity to discover Tuscania, one of the most fascinating art cities in northern Lazio. The Romanesque basilicas of San Pietro and Santa Maria Maggiore, the medieval walls, the Etruscan necropolises, and the archaeological museum tell nearly three thousand years of history. In October, with the autumn colors painting the Maremma Laziale countryside, the village is at its best—and a cup of ciocolata a squajo enjoyed in its stone alleys is the sweetest way to experience it.

An Event for Everyone

Free and family-friendly, the Cioccolata a Squajo Festival blends indulgence, folklore, and culture. It is a weekend that smells of cocoa and tradition, drawing visitors to Tuscania from across the Viterbo province, Rome, and nearby Tuscany.