Pontoglio De.Co. Casoncello Festival

The Casoncello, the Soul of Pontoglio

The Pontoglio De.Co. Casoncello Festival is the celebration that every January honours the signature dish of this town in the province of Brescia. The casoncello is a raviolo with a rich filling of cheeses, meat, and herbs, recognised with the De.Co. (Denominazione Comunale - Municipal Designation), a mark that certifies its uniqueness and link to the territory. More than just a recipe, it's a bridge between the past, present, and future of the local community.

A Festival Spread Across Restaurants

The festival's format is unique: for about two weeks, participating restaurants in Pontoglio offer the De.Co. casoncello on their menus, transforming the entire town into a culinary journey. Seven eateries take part in the initiative, while some workshops offer demonstrations of fresh pasta preparation, revealing to visitors the secrets of a dish that requires patience and skill.

The Casoncello Grand Gala

The highlight of the event is the Casoncello Grand Gala, held on a Sunday at the San Giovanni Bosco Oratory. It's a convivial lunch with a full menu, from starter to dessert, where the casoncello is naturally the star. It's an occasion to bring the entire community of Pontoglio together around the table, in an atmosphere of celebration and belonging.

Together with the Feast of Saint Anthony Abbot

The festival is intertwined with the Feast of Saint Anthony Abbot, the patron saint of Pontoglio, celebrated for over a century. This connection gives the event a dimension that goes beyond gastronomy, rooting it in the religious and identity traditions of the town. For visitors to the province of Brescia in winter, the Casoncello Festival offers an authentic immersion into the flavours and culture of the Bassa Bresciana region.