Porcini Mushroom and Steak Festival

A celebration of taste in the heart of Val di Chio

The Porcini Mushroom and Steak Festival takes place every year in the small village of Noceta, within the municipality of Castiglion Fiorentino, in the province of Arezzo, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Val di Chio. Promoted by the APS Circolo ACLI La Noceta, the festival has grown over the years into one of the most cherished food and wine events of the Arezzo autumn, attracting visitors from across Tuscany and neighboring Umbria.

The star ingredients

As the name suggests, the two main stars of the festival are the porcini mushroom, foraged from the woods surrounding the valley, and the grilled steak, a symbol of the Tuscan meat-eating tradition. Alongside these staples, the kitchens of Noceta offer specialties that tell the story of the local peasant cuisine:

• Tagliatelle alla valligiana, a traditional local pasta dish;
• Cappelle alla nocetina, tasty porcini mushroom caps prepared according to the local recipe;
• Polenta di ciombino, an ancient peasant dish from the Val di Chio;
• Mushrooms alla nocetina, polenta, and grilled meats paired with local wines.

These are genuine, ancient recipes passed down through generations, making the festival a true journey into the authentic flavors of the Tuscan autumn.

Atmosphere and conviviality

The festival is held at the Circolo ACLI La Noceta facilities, in a village fair atmosphere where good food meets social connection. The food stalls open on weekend evenings, and on Sundays for lunch as well, offering the chance to enjoy typical dishes in good company. The event preserves the genuine spirit of village festivals, where the dedication of the club's volunteers is the true heart of the celebration.

A deeply rooted tradition

Created to showcase forest products and the culinary traditions of the Val di Chio, the Porcini Mushroom and Steak Festival represents an important moment for the community of Noceta and the entire municipality of Castiglion Fiorentino. The festival is part of the rich calendar of village fairs and celebrations that bring this corner of the province of Arezzo to life throughout the year, helping to keep the rural identity of this part of Tuscany alive.