Lama dei Peligni Sfogliatella Festival

The Lama dei Peligni Sfogliatella Festival

The Sfogliatella Festival is the most anticipated culinary event in Lama dei Peligni, a charming village in the province of Chieti nestled on the eastern slopes of the Majella, in Abruzzo. Every year on April 25th, the historic center fills with aromas, colors, and flavors to celebrate the pastry that bears the village's name and defines its local identity.

A pastry between two traditions

The Lama dei Peligni sfogliatella is a local variation of the famous Neapolitan sfogliatella. The recipe dates back to the early 20th century, when Donna Anna Di Guglielmo reinterpreted the Neapolitan classic, adapting it to the ingredients and tastes of the Abruzzo region. Unlike the Neapolitan version, the local sfogliatella features a softer dough and a rich, indulgent filling: grape and black cherry jam, cooked grape must, walnuts, and cocoa. Long kept as a secret family recipe, it was eventually shared with the entire community, becoming the village's iconic dessert.

The day's program

The heart of the event is Piazza Umberto I, where food stalls and activities are concentrated. The day includes:

• Food stalls to taste the sfogliatella and other local specialties;
• the 'La più buona fra le buone' competition, which rewards the best sfogliatella prepared by local home cooks and pastry chefs, judged by a Slow Food jury;
• folk music, singing, and dancing to liven up the afternoon and evening;
• entertainment and activities dedicated to promoting the village's traditions.

Lama dei Peligni and the Majella

Located within the Majella National Park, Lama dei Peligni is a village with a strong focus on nature and gastronomy. The Sfogliatella Festival is the perfect opportunity to explore the town, its narrow alleys, and its cuisine, combining a nature walk with the tasting of a pastry that has become a true hallmark of the upper Chieti area.

A consolidated tradition

Founded in 2000, the event has grown with each edition to become a staple of the Abruzzo calendar, attracting visitors from across the region. Combining the April 25th holiday with the deliciousness of the sfogliatella makes this festival one of the most tempting spring destinations in the province of Chieti.