Over half a century of fried frogs, frico, and dancing nights in the heart of Carnia
Few events capture the Friulian spirit of conviviality like the Frog Festival of Invillino. Now in its 56th edition, this historic village festival transforms the hamlet of Villa Santina, in the heart of Carnia, into a grand gathering place for food lovers, families, and dancers for several days, attracting visitors from all over the province of Udine and beyond.
The signature dish is, of course, the fried frogs, crispy and fragrant, prepared according to traditional recipes. Alongside them, the food stalls offer small fried squid, frico with polenta, and homemade potato gnocchi, as well as dishes like venison with polenta: a hearty and authentic menu that combines earthy flavors and seasonal specialties, in perfect Carnic style.
The festival isn't just about food: every evening, the dance floor comes alive with dancing nights, ballroom dancing, and live music, with different orchestras and bands at each event. Among the most cherished initiatives are the dart tournament "Rana Darts Divilin", organized by ASD Darts FVG, and the charity relay race "Running for a Smile: Together for Lorenzo", which links the festival to solidarity.
Organized by the community of Invillino with the support of the Municipality of Villa Santina, the festival is much more than a gastronomic event: it's a moment when the entire hamlet gets involved, from the kitchens to the setup and hospitality. An event that, edition after edition, continues to keep one of Carnia's most genuine traditions alive.
The 56th edition is spread over several days between late May and early June: May 23, 24, 29, 30, 31, and June 1, 2026. Each evening features traditional dishes, with fried frogs in the spotlight, and musical entertainment with different orchestras and bands. There's also space for sports and solidarity with the dart tournament and the charity relay.
Schedule and main events for the 2026 edition (May 23, 24, 29, 30, 31, and June 1):
The full hourly schedule for the evenings will be published by the organizers closer to the event.
How to get there: Invillino is a hamlet of Villa Santina, in Carnia, reachable from Tolmezzo along the state road towards Ampezzo.
Admission: free entry; food and drinks at the stalls are paid.
Accommodation: accommodation facilities in Villa Santina, Tolmezzo, and in the municipalities of Carnia.
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Invillino di Villa Santina