«Lu Ccite de Lu Porc» Festival

A festival that preserves rural heritage

In the village of Torricella Sicura, set against the hills of the Teramo province, the «Lu Ccite de Lu Porc» festival is one of the most cherished events of the winter season. The name, in the local Abruzzese dialect, translates to «the killing of the pig»: the event re-enacts the ancient slaughtering ritual, a cornerstone of rural life for farming families in the Abruzzo hinterland.

Organized by the Pro Loco of Torricella Sicura since 1996, the festival traditionally takes place in February, when the winter chill allowed for the proper preservation of the meat. The 2025 event marked its twenty-seventh edition.

The significance of the ritual

In the past, the pig was an essential resource for the harsh rural life, providing a food supply for the entire year. «Lu ccite de lu porc» was a collective effort: neighboring families would gather to help each other process the meat, concluding the hard work with a friendly, joyful lunch.

The festival aims to evoke these cherished memories for the older generation while offering younger ones a chance to learn about the fundamental aspects of Abruzzese peasant culture, passing down knowledge and skills that risk being forgotten.

Flavor and conviviality in the square

The heart of the event is the food stalls set up in Piazza Mario Capuani, where visitors can savor pork dishes and cured meats typical of the Teramo tradition. It is an opportunity to rediscover the authentic flavors of Abruzzese cuisine in a festive village atmosphere, surrounded by the warmth of the community and the conviviality that defines Apennine festivals.

• Re-enactment of traditional pig processing
• Food stalls featuring typical Abruzzese dishes and cured meats
• Moments of social connection and rediscovery of rural culture
• Active involvement of the local community and families

Torricella Sicura and the Teramo region

The municipality of Torricella Sicura is located in the hilly belt between Teramo and the Monti della Laga, in a territory that maintains a strong bond with its agro-pastoral traditions. Events like «Lu Ccite de Lu Porc» are a vital part of the identity of this corner of Abruzzo, where the Pro Loco organizes a rich program of initiatives throughout the year to promote local culture and products.

The dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been announced: we recommend checking the official channels of the Pro Loco of Torricella Sicura for updates.