Cuddurune Festival

The Cuddurune Festival in Mistretta

The Cuddurune Festival is one of the most cherished gastronomic events in Mistretta, a charming village nestled in the Nebrodi Mountains in the province of Messina, Sicily. Organized by the Pro Loco Mistretta APS in collaboration with the local Agricultural Society, the festival transforms Piazza San Felice every September into a large, convivial space filled with stalls, communal tables, and the mouth-watering aroma of freshly fried dough.

What is the cuddurune?

The cuddurune (or cudduruni) is a bread-dough fritter, which originated as a humble peasant dish. Using leftover bread dough after it has risen, small portions are shaped and then fried in boiling oil. It is served hot, in two versions that have always divided food lovers: the sweet version, dusted with sugar, and the savory one, seasoned with salt. Simple in its ingredients but rich in meaning, the cuddurune is now an authentic symbol of Mistretta's culinary identity.

The atmosphere of the festival

During the festival, volunteers prepare and fry the cudduruni live before the visitors' eyes: the rolling out of the dough, the frying in large pans, and the final seasoning turn into a small spectacle. Piazza San Felice becomes a welcoming space with tables where guests can enjoy the dish in good company, accompanied by music, entertainment, and the vibrant atmosphere of a popular feast that draws locals and visitors from neighboring Nebrodi towns.

A growing tradition

Reaching its tenth edition in 2025, the Cuddurune Festival has established itself as a highly anticipated event, successfully showcasing the region's culinary roots and restoring dignity to a traditional dish. It is a perfect opportunity to discover Mistretta, its historic center, and the warmth of the Nebrodi through a simple, genuine flavor.

Mistretta and the Nebrodi

Located in the Municipality of Mistretta, one of the most characteristic villages in the province of Messina, the festival is also an invitation to explore the Nebrodi Park, its mountain landscapes, and Sicilian food and wine. An event to experience at the end of summer, when the evening brings a bit of coolness and the square fills with people.