Fried Squid Festival

A seaside festival in the heart of Valdera

In the town of Bientina, a small village in the province of Pisa overlooking the plains of an ancient reclaimed lake, one of the region's most cherished gastronomic events comes to life every summer: the Fried Squid Festival. For five weekends between July and early August, the Bientina Sports Field on Via Leonardo da Vinci comes alive with the aroma of frying, lively chatter, and long outdoor tables in true Tuscan festival style.

The star dish: fried squid

As the name suggests, the real star of the show is the fried squid, served hot and crispy, accompanied by a wide selection of seafood dishes. The menu includes a seafood platter, seafood risotto, scampi pasta, grilled king prawns, Livorno-style salt cod, and, in the most extensive editions, even cacciucco fish stew with stuffed squid. For those who prefer land-based options, there is no shortage of grilled meat and pizzas, while traditional desserts like tiramisu, torta della nonna, bomboloni, and cantuccini provide the perfect finish.

An event for family and friends

The Fried Squid Festival is designed for socializing: the venue is outdoors with covered areas in case of bad weather, and free five-a-side football pitches are set up for children, allowing families to dine in peace while the kids play. It is this blend of great food and a relaxed vibe that has made the festival a staple of the Bientina summer.

Organization and tradition

The event is organized by A.S.D. Sextum Bientina, a local sports and cultural association that has been meticulously managing every detail for over twenty years. Now in its 23rd edition, the festival is a permanent fixture in the Valdera summer calendar and part of the rich tapestry of village festivals that animate Tuscany during the warmer months.

A weekend of flavors and local discovery

Attending the Fried Squid Festival is also the perfect opportunity to explore Bientina and its hinterland, nestled between the Pisan hills and the villages of Valdera. An evening at the festival, with fried squid on your plate and the company of locals, tells the story of the convivial and gastronomic soul of lesser-known Tuscany better than any guidebook.