LUVA – Gattinara Grape Festival

LUVA, the festival celebrating the great wine of Gattinara

In the heart of Upper Piedmont, at the foot of the Nebbiolo-covered hills, the town of Gattinara (in the province of Vercelli) dedicates an entire weekend every September to the grape harvest and its most famous wine. LUVA – Gattinara Grape Festival is the most anticipated food and wine event in the area: for three days, the streets and squares of the historic center transform into a grand route filled with the scent of must, local flavors, music, and Piedmontese culture.

The star of the show: Gattinara DOCG

The absolute heart of the festival is Gattinara DOCG, one of Italy's most noble red wines made from the Nebbiolo grape, with a reputation dating back to the 16th century. During LUVA, local wineries open their doors to visitors for guided tastings, while in the squares, you can also sample Coste della Sesia DOC wines. It is no coincidence that Gattinara was named European City of Wine 2024, a recognition that highlights the deep bond between the village and its viticulture.

Three days of tradition, taste, and entertainment

The LUVA program weaves together gastronomy, folklore, and entertainment. Recurring highlights include: taverns and food stands serving traditional local dishes, wine tastings, craft markets, stalls featuring local producers, historical parades with participants in period costumes, musical groups and concerts throughout the squares, as well as exhibitions, cultural events, and activities for children. Visits to the vineyards complete an experience that showcases the hilly landscape and the rural roots of the Valsesia and Upper Piedmont.

A community celebration

LUVA is made possible by the collaborative efforts of the Pro Loco, local associations, tavern owners, merchants, artisans, and volunteers: it is a village festival in the most authentic sense, where the entire community of Gattinara welcomes its visitors. Admission is free, and the event attracts thousands of wine and tradition enthusiasts every year.