Pork and Wild Boar Festival

A festival in the heart of the Peloritani

In Antillo, a small mountain town in the Metropolitan City of Messina perched 450 meters above sea level in the Peloritani mountains, the first weekend of December has been synonymous with celebration for over twenty years. The Pork and Wild Boar Festival, established in 2004 by the local municipality and community, is one of the most cherished food and wine events in the eastern Peloritani region, drawing visitors from across the province of Messina and the Ionian coast.

The flavors of rural tradition

The festival's core is the promotion of pig farming, a cornerstone of Antillo's rural economy. Along Via Roma and throughout the historic center, stalls offer specialties prepared according to ancient recipes: porchetta, sausages, cured meats, lard, and the famous frittuli, alongside dishes featuring wild boar. The event also features a market showcasing typical Antillo products, including mushrooms, extra virgin olive oil, wine, honey, dried fruit, homemade bread, cheeses, and artisanal pasta.

Crafts, music, and culture

The event is more than just a culinary experience. The festival grounds host an exhibition of artisanal crafts with live demonstrations of traditional techniques, such as wicker basket weaving, and musical entertainment that enlivens the two days. Collateral initiatives include a photography exhibition, visits to the Agro-Pastoral Museum, and insights into the territory's historical and natural heritage, from Mount Pizzo to the commemorative Bell.

A village to discover

The festival is the perfect opportunity to discover Antillo and the hinterland of the Ionian Peloritani, a corner of authentic Sicily defined by forests, trails, and ancient agro-pastoral traditions. Admission to the event is free.