Fiera Fredda Snail Festival

A tradition spanning centuries

The Fiera Fredda Snail Festival is one of the oldest fairs in Piedmont, with roots dating back to 1569, when Duke Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy authorized the establishment of a fair in the municipality of Borgo San Dalmazzo, in the Province of Cuneo, to honor the patron saint San Dalmazzo, who was martyred on December 5th. Since then, every year around the Immaculate Conception, the event draws locals from the nearby valleys and thousands of visitors, becoming a defining identity for the entire Cuneo area and Piedmont.

The star: the Helix Pomatia Alpina snail

At the heart of the fair is the Helix Pomatia Alpina alpine snail, which finds its natural habitat in the Maritime Alps. Its light, delicate meat, with an herbaceous aroma derived from grazing freely among high-altitude aromatic herbs, makes it a rare and sought-after product. The gastronomic review "Under the sign of the snail" involves restaurants in Borgo San Dalmazzo and the surrounding valleys, which offer traditional dishes: snails prepared with green sauce, devil-style, with Nebbiolo wine, cartunera-style, borgarina-style, and the classic trio of sauces.

What to experience at the fair

• Markets with exhibitors, snail farmers, and producers of excellent local food and wine
• Live cooking shows with local chefs and live demonstrations
• Shows, concerts, and music during the evenings of the event
• Activities for families and entertainment in the historic center
• The large extraordinary market that fills the town streets

An event between history and taste

More than just a food festival, the Fiera Fredda is a community celebration that unites the religious dimension of the patron saint San Dalmazzo, the rural culture of the alpine valleys, and the pleasure of good food. The spaces of Palazzo Bertello and the historic center host stalls, dining areas, and cultural initiatives in a festive atmosphere that anticipates the Christmas season. For those visiting Piedmont in winter, it is the ideal opportunity to discover a unique product and a tradition that has been alive for over four centuries.