Fricennu Mangiannu

Fricennu Mangiannu, the Salento fried food festival in Avetrana

Fricennu Mangiannu is one of the most beloved gastronomic festivals of the summer in Avetrana, a small town in the province of Taranto, Puglia, just a stone's throw from the Ionian Sea and the Salento coast. The name, in the Salento dialect, literally means "frying and eating": an invitation that perfectly captures the spirit of the event, which is dedicated to traditional fried street food and the joy of community gatherings.

A staple in the historic center

The festival takes place in the evocative historic center of Avetrana, centered around Piazza Vittorio Veneto, which transforms for one night into a massive open-air kitchen filled with aromas, lights, and music. The event is organized by the Associazione Giostra dei Rioni San Francesco d'Assisi and is traditionally held in mid-August, marking the conclusion of the Giostra dei Rioni week. For nearly twenty years, Fricennu Mangiannu has drawn residents, visitors from neighboring towns, and tourists alike, all eager to experience Salento's traditions.

The flavors: fried delicacies of Salento cuisine

The undisputed star is the food, strictly fried and rooted in the peasant and maritime traditions of Salento. Along the food stalls, you can enjoy:

• Fried fish and mixed fried seafood (paranza)
• Fava bean purée with friggitelli peppers and seasonal vegetables
• Meatballs and legumes
• Battered vegetables and pettole, the typical Salento fritters
• Sandwiches with grilled sausage and local wine

Everything is paired with local wines, offering a taste journey that showcases the authenticity of Puglia's rustic cuisine.

Folk music and pizzica

Alongside the gastronomy, the evening is enlivened by Salento folk music and the infectious rhythms of the pizzica. Past editions have featured groups deeply connected to Salento's musical heritage, turning the square into a vibrant celebration of song and dance that lasts until late at night.

Fricennu Mangiannu and the Giostra dei Rioni

The event is closely linked to the Giostra dei Rioni of Avetrana, a historical re-enactment that sees the town's districts (Castello, Saraceno, San Francesco, and San Martino) compete in the days leading up to the festival with Renaissance-style pageants, shows, and games. Fricennu Mangiannu serves as the convivial and culinary highlight, open to the entire community.

An event in the heart of the Salento area of Taranto

Attending Fricennu Mangiannu means experiencing authentic Salento tradition in the Municipality of Avetrana, surrounded by genuine flavors, music, and hospitality. It is the perfect opportunity to discover the inland areas of the province of Taranto during your summer holidays in Puglia.