The oldest festival in Friuli dedicated to the apple, in Pantianicco
There is a small village in the central Friulian plain that for over half a century has been synonymous with apples: Pantianicco, a hamlet of the municipality of Mereto di Tomba in the province of Udine. Here, between late September and the first days of October, the Regional Apple Exhibition comes to life, the oldest event in Friuli Venezia Giulia dedicated to this fruit, the pride of an apple-growing tradition that has made the village famous throughout the region and beyond.
Apple cultivation in Friuli has very ancient roots, which historian and writer Angelo Floramo, a guest at the event, traces back to Roman times. The Pantianicco Exhibition celebrates this ancient bond between the fruit and the land, recounting how the apple has influenced daily life, culinary traditions, and the community's folk festivals. Local production is now also protected by a regional trademark, recognizing the value and quality of these apples.
During the event, Pantianicco transforms into a lively stage dedicated to the apple. The exhibition part presents the different varieties cultivated, while the gastronomic fair offers menus rich in typical dishes and desserts, among which the famous Pomelle, the sweet symbol of the festival, stands out. Visitors can taste the fruit in all its forms: fresh, in juices, ciders, and vinegars, accompanied by fine honeys, in a journey of flavors that enhances every aspect of the supply chain.
Organized by Pro Loco Pantianicco, an association dedicated to promoting the territory and its agri-food excellences, the Regional Apple Exhibition is much more than a local fair (sagra); it is a cultural heritage that the community proudly preserves and passes down. For those who want to discover the authentic apple-growing tradition of Friuli, accompanied by the warmth of village festivals, the autumn event in Pantianicco is unmissable.
In 2026, Pantianicco will once again celebrate its historic Regional Apple Exhibition between the end of September and the first days of October. The exact dates will be announced by Pro Loco Pantianicco. The event features an exhibition of apple varieties, a gastronomic fair with traditional dishes and desserts, including the famous Pomelle, and tastings of juices, ciders, vinegars, and honeys.
The detailed schedule will be published by Pro Loco Pantianicco on the official website in the weeks preceding the event. Based on recent editions, the festival spans two weekends and includes:
Pantianicco is a hamlet of the municipality of Mereto di Tomba (UD), in the central Friulian plain, reachable via local roads between Codroipo and San Daniele del Friuli.
Free admission. Food and drinks are paid for at the gastronomic fair. Info: Pro Loco Pantianicco, Via Caterina Percoto 4, [email protected], www.prolocopantianicco.it
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Pantianicco di Mereto di Tomba