Civic Paella Festival in Boschetto

A Paella Amidst the Apennine Mountains of Parma

The Civic Paella Festival is one of the most charming and original gastronomic events in the Val Taro summer calendar. It takes place in Boschetto, a hamlet in the Municipality of Albareto, in the province of Parma, nestled in the woods of the upper valley where the Taro River originates close to the Apennine ridge. Here, far from the routes of mass tourism, a small but lively community has chosen to bring to the table a dish that seemingly has nothing to do with these mountains: paella, the famous Spanish rice cooked in large iron pans.

What is "Civic Paella"?

The curious name always brings a smile. "Civic paella" is the convivial, village-style version of this Valencian dish: a large communal pan from which everyone serves themselves, a symbol of sharing and collective celebration. The rice is cooked outdoors, under the eyes of the attendees, with its classic saffron base, and enriched according to the Iberian tradition recipe. It's a way to bring the village together around food, in an evening that blends Mediterranean flavors with Apennine hospitality.

A Young and Growing Festival

Now in its second edition, the Civic Paella Festival is a recent event, born from the enthusiasm of young people and the Pro Loco of Albareto along with the community of Boschetto. It is part of the rich calendar of festivals that animate this hamlet throughout the year, from summer fairs to religious celebrations, making Boschetto one of the most festive places in the upper Val Taro.

What to Expect

• The preparation of the large paella cooked on-site
• Catering service and food stalls with hot dishes
• Outdoor communal tables in a convivial village festival atmosphere
• Music and evening entertainment to accompany dinner

The Territory

Albareto is a mountain municipality in Emilia-Romagna, most famous for its woods and the prized porcini mushroom, to which it dedicates a renowned national fair in autumn. A visit to Boschetto during the festival is also an opportunity to discover an authentic corner of the Apennines of Parma, with its trails, chestnut groves, and genuine mountain cuisine.