Fritter Festival

The Cremolino Fritter Festival

In the medieval village of Cremolino, perched on the hills of the Monferrato area in the province of Alessandria, May 1st has always been synonymous with celebration. The Fritter Festival transforms the ancient village into an open-air stage where gastronomy, history, and entertainment intertwine for a full day. Promoted by the Cremolino Pro Loco in collaboration with the local municipality and associations, it is one of the most beloved and anticipated events in the Piedmontese spring calendar.

A tradition born in the Middle Ages

The festival traces its roots to a historical episode involving the noble families of the territory: the re-enactment celebrates the wedding between Agnese Del Bosco, of Aleramic lineage, and Federico Malaspina. From that union, the custom of distributing fritters to the people was born—a gesture of noble generosity that has been passed down through the centuries to become the very identity of the village. Even today, the fritters are prepared following ancient recipes, both in the traditional version and the apple-filled one, and served in the square to residents and visitors alike.

The day's program

From the afternoon onwards, the ancient village comes alive with a packed schedule of events that blends flavors and spectacle:

• Fritter distribution in the main square, featuring both classic and apple varieties, alongside local gastronomic products;
• Medieval camp with tents and banners, set up at the Centro Karmel;
• Falconry show with flight demonstrations beneath the castle;
• Historical pageant with costumed performers, drummers, and the famous flag-wavers of the Palio di Asti;
• Medieval and Renaissance music with the group "I Quattro+Uno" and other live performances;
• Stalls selling crafts, hobbies, and local products along the village streets.

A unique atmosphere in Monferrato

The strength of the Fritter Festival lies in its ability to bring the past to life in an authentic setting: the cobblestone streets, the castle, and the stone houses of the ancient village provide a natural backdrop for an event that engages both adults and children. For those visiting the Piedmont Region who wish to discover a genuine event far from mass tourism, the day in Cremolino is a perfect opportunity to savor the tradition of Monferrato through history, taste, and folklore.