Costarella Festival

The Costarella Festival in Bassano Romano

The Costarella Festival is one of the most deeply rooted gastronomic events of the summer in Bassano Romano, a village in the Sabatini Mountains in the province of Viterbo, located in the Tuscia region north of Rome. Reaching its twentieth edition in 2019, the event is deeply connected to local rural traditions and the town's bond with the world of horses: it is organized by the Amici del Cavallo Association, which sets up the festival every year in the picturesque San Vincenzo area, just north of the historic center.

The costarella, the star of the table

The dish that gives the festival its name is the costarella, pork ribs grilled according to the tradition of the lower Tuscia. At the food stalls, this specialty is served alongside grilled meats, local dishes, and regional wines, in a convivial atmosphere that attracts visitors from all the neighboring towns. Genuine cuisine and affordable prices have always been key to the event's success.

Music, dancing, and equestrian tradition

Beyond the excellent food, the Costarella Festival offers live music and dance evenings that keep the San Vincenzo area lively until late at night. There is no shortage of market stalls, children's games, and moments dedicated to the equestrian world, the heart of the Amici del Cavallo's identity: in past editions, the festival has featured carriage rides for children, the crowning of Miss Costarella, and fireworks displays to close out the Sunday festivities.

In the heart of the Bassano Summer

The festival is part of the rich calendar of the Bassano Summer, the season of events that the Municipality of Bassano Romano dedicates to the summer months. In August, the town experiences its most intense days between the Costarella Festival, the patronal feasts of San Luciano and San Gratiliano, allegorical floats, and the popular events that accompany the Ferragosto holiday. Attending the festival means discovering not only a traditional dish but also the hospitality and warmth of a Tuscia community that gathers around the grill every summer.

Why attend

• Grilled costarella and traditional Viterbo dishes;
• Live music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere until late at night;
• Games and activities for children and families;
• The equestrian tradition of the Amici del Cavallo and the scenic setting of the San Vincenzo area;
• Free admission and free parking at one of the longest-running festivals in lower Tuscia.