Prickly Pear, Mostarda and Sausage Festival

A festival dedicated to the flavors of Etna

The Prickly Pear, Mostarda and Sausage Festival in Camporotondo Etneo, in the province of Catania, is one of the most anticipated autumn food and wine events on the slopes of Mount Etna. Organized by the local municipality with the support of local associations, the event was created to protect and promote the traditions of the Camporotondo community and to showcase the excellence of the region's typical products.

The three protagonists: prickly pear, mostarda, and sausage

At the heart of the festival are three products that encapsulate the agricultural identity of this part of Sicily. The Etna Prickly Pear, a delicious fruit with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, grows in a wide belt between 150 and 750 meters above sea level, spanning several municipalities on the Etna side. The mostarda, dense and fragrant, is prepared according to recipes passed down through generations. The sausage, grilled over charcoal, completes the trio of flavors that bring the evenings to life.

Two weekends, two squares

The festival's structure is unique: it takes place over two weekends and is split between two locations within the municipality. One weekend is dedicated to the village of Piano Tavola, in Piazza Titta Abbadessa, while the other brings the heart of the town to life between Via Umberto and Piazza Sant'Antonio Abate. In total, four events allow visitors to experience the celebration on different days.

Tastings, music, and entertainment

Along the food and wine trails, visitors can sample local products paired with regional wines, amidst street food stalls and craft markets. The evenings are filled with musical performances, dancing, and entertainment for all ages, turning the squares into a vibrant community gathering. Admission to the event is free.

Camporotondo Etneo and its territory

Nestled on the southwestern slopes of Mount Etna, Camporotondo Etneo is a small town in the Metropolitan City of Catania that maintains a strong bond with the land and its agricultural output. For residents, the festival is a joyous occasion, and for visitors, it serves as a gateway to the authentic flavors of the Etna hinterland in Sicily.