Sagra dà Piciòta Nicosiana Festival

A festival dedicated to the flavors of the Nicosia mountains

The Sagra dà Piciòta Nicosiana is one of the most cherished winter gastronomic events in Nicosia, an ancient town nestled in the Nebrodi mountains in the province of Enna, in the heart of Sicily. The festival was created to promote and preserve a dish deeply rooted in local peasant culture: piciòta, a type of humble polenta that Nicosia families prepared during the coldest months of the year, when snow blanketed the rooftops and the surrounding peaks.

What is piciòta?

Piciòta is a dish made from chickling vetch flour and other legumes, slow-cooked until it reaches a thick, comforting consistency—similar to northern polenta but with a distinctly Sicilian soul. The traditional recipe calls for it to be served with borage and bacon, though variations with broccoli, sausage, or lard are also popular, often served over toasted bread. It was the quintessential food for harsh days, born from the ingenuity of local women who, using simple ingredients and wild greens, created a nutritious and flavorful meal. Even leftovers were prized: the next day, the cold slices were fried, turning into a true delicacy.

The festival program

During the festival, Piazza San Francesco di Paola comes alive with stalls dedicated to tasting piciòta in its various forms. Surrounding the star dish is a culinary journey that showcases the flavors of the Nicosia territory. The event includes:

• Tastings of Nicosia-style piciòta and other local specialties;
• Christmas markets featuring artisanal crafts and regional products;
• Live music in the evenings, creating a festive and convivial atmosphere;
• The magical Christmas ambiance of the historic center, filled with lights and holiday traditions.

Tradition and identity in Nicosia

More than just a food festival, the Sagra dà Piciòta Nicosiana is an opportunity to rediscover the culinary identity of a mountain village that has kept its recipes alive for generations. Organized with the support of the local community and businesses and sponsored by the Municipality of Nicosia, the event attracts visitors eager to savor an authentic piece of Sicilian peasant cuisine. At a time of year when the Nebrodi villages are adorned with Christmas spirit, piciòta becomes a symbol of hospitality, memory, and belonging.