Locarno Asparagus Festival in Varallo

The Locarno Asparagus Festival

Every spring, the small village of Locarno, in the municipality of Varallo, province of Vercelli, comes alive with the Asparagus Festival, one of the most cherished food and wine events in the lower Valsesia. Reaching its 30th edition in 2026, the festival is a well-established fixture in the local calendar, attracting visitors from neighboring towns and the Upper Piedmont region.

A culinary tradition of the Valsesia

In Locarno, asparagus is synonymous with tradition, culture, and culinary art. The event was created to showcase ancient local recipes, putting asparagus at the center of every dish. The festival menu ranges from classic first courses to traditional Piedmontese side dishes:

• Asparagus risotto
• Agnolotti with asparagus, butter, and sage
• Asparagus lasagne
• Asparagus with butter and Parmesan, served with eggs
• Fried asparagus and meat courses accompanied by asparagus
• Traditional Piedmontese desserts

A community celebration

The festival is organized by the Pro Loco Locarno, which manages hospitality and service within the village. The atmosphere is that of an authentic village fair: convivial long tables, dishes prepared by volunteers, and the simple, warm hospitality typical of the Valsesia. The evenings are a perfect opportunity to gather around good food and rediscover seasonal flavors.

Varallo and the Valsesia

The festival takes place in Locarno, a hamlet of Varallo, a town best known for the Sacro Monte di Varallo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and as a gateway to the Valsesia. Visiting the festival is also a great chance to explore one of Piedmont's most evocative territories, filled with mountains, historic villages, and traditions passed down through generations. The event offers free admission; reservations are recommended for meals.