Polenta Festival of San Costanzo (winter edition)

The oldest festival in the Marche

The Polenta Festival of San Costanzo, in the heart of the province of Pesaro and Urbino, is considered the oldest festival in the Marche. Its winter edition enlivens the historic center of the Municipality every year, around mid-March, between the bell tower and the charming Malatesta walls. Its origins date back to the 18th century: according to tradition, it was the masked carters who started the festival, gathering the necessary ingredients to celebrate the arrival of the good season together.

The Polenta Masters' Polenta

The heart of the festival is, of course, the polenta, still prepared today using ancient methods. The Polenta Masters light the traditional braziers and cook the polenta in large copper pots over an open fire, with slow cooking that restores the authentic flavor of peasant cuisine. It is served with the famous carters' ragù, but along the village streets, you can also find cod, mortadella, herring, and at the "Bettola," sweet fritters, hot drinks, and mulled wine.

A village celebrating

Throughout the day, the streets of San Costanzo fill with hobbyist markets, folk music performances, family entertainment, and moments of fun. The event is organized by the Pro Loco of San Costanzo with the support of the local community and regional associations, and is now protected by a registered trademark that guarantees its authenticity.

Tradition Renewed

In recent years, the Pro Loco has sought to further enhance this heritage of the Marche identity, adding a summer version to the winter edition in March, designed to welcome tourists from the coast. The involvement of younger generations ensures the generational continuity of a ritual that, for over two centuries, has united the village around the aroma of polenta.