Ficattola Festival

A festival that smells of fried dough

In the heart of the Valdarno Pisano, the Ficattola Festival has been one of the most beloved gastronomic events in the Pisa province for over thirty years. It takes place in Quattro Strade, a hamlet of Bientina, at Parco Le Sughere—the green space managed by the Circolo Il Risorgimento that hosts the community's most cherished events every summer. The festival is passionately organized by the Contrada Quattro Strade, a group of volunteers who have kept this local tradition alive for decades.

What is a ficattola?

The ficattola is a leavened dough made from flour, fried in boiling oil until golden and crispy. It is a humble, ancient dish of Tuscan peasant cuisine that takes center stage here. It can be enjoyed savory, plain or stuffed with local cold cuts and cured meats, or sweet, dusted with sugar. Alongside the ficattola, the stalls offer other Valdarno Pisano specialties in a genuine menu designed for all ages.

Music, dancing, and village atmosphere

The Ficattola Festival is about more than just great food: every evening, Parco Le Sughere comes alive with live music and dancing, featuring orchestras and bands playing everything from ballroom to pop, with repertoires suitable for all generations. It is a popular festival in the most authentic sense, where local families gather under the stars to dine, chat, and dance.

A deeply rooted local tradition

Now in its thirty-third year, the event is a staple of the Bientina summer calendar. Along with the other festivals hosted at Parco Le Sughere during the warmer months, it helps showcase the flavors and hospitality of this corner of Tuscany, just a few kilometers from Pisa and Lucca. Admission is free, with food available for purchase at the stalls.