Risotto & Chiacchiere

Risotto takes centre stage

Risotto & Chiacchiere is one of the most convivial events of Benvenuti in Lomellina, the festival that each spring celebrates the rice-growing lands of the province of Pavia. It takes place at Cascina Tessera, in the municipality of Valeggio, and stars the Confraternita del Risotto (Risotto Brotherhood), an association dedicated to preserving and promoting the culture of this iconic Lomellina dish.

A day at the farmhouse

The programme includes a visit to the farmhouse and a traditional ceremony linked to the brotherhood, in a festive and storytelling atmosphere. It's the perfect opportunity to discover how Lomellina risotto is made, from the rice paddies to the table, and to share – as the event's name suggests – a chat ('chiacchiere') over a dish steeped in centuries of agricultural history.

The rice-growing roots of Lomellina

Lomellina is one of Europe's most important rice-growing areas: here, water, springs ('fontanili'), and large farmhouses ('cascine') have shaped a unique landscape. Events like Risotto & Chiacchiere offer direct contact with this identity, highlighting the work of producers and the gastronomic culture of the Pavia region.

Part of Benvenuti in Lomellina

The event is part of the widespread programme of Benvenuti in Lomellina, promoted by GAL Risorsa Lomellina with Regione Lombardia, Fondazione Monte di Lombardia, and Fondazione Cariplo. Three days of tours, open farms, festivals, and historical re-enactments across farmhouses, villages, and rice paddies.