Sagra degli Gnocchi di San Sanasà

The Patron Saint's Gnocchi

In Sannazzaro de' Burgondi, in the province of Pavia, July 28th is the feast day of Saints Nazzaro and Celso, the town's patron saints. And in the heart of Lomellina, the patronal feast is known by everyone as "San Sanasà". The dish that has always accompanied this celebration is singular: gnocchi. Hence the name of the Sagra degli Gnocchi di San Sanasà, one of the most cherished events in the Sannazzaro calendar.

A Peasant Tradition Brought Back to Life

The festival revives an ancient and very practical custom. The new potatoes, grown in home gardens, were harvested in summer to be stored throughout the winter. Precisely during the patronal feast period, in every family, the potatoes were "tested" by preparing gnocchi: it was the way to check their quality before setting them aside. The Pro Loco has brought this peasant memory back to life, transforming it into a grand community celebration.

Several Quintals of Gnocchi in Piazzale Mainoli

The heart of the event is Piazzale Mainoli, where the Pro Loco prepares several quintals of strictly homemade gnocchi, served in various versions: the classic with ragù and those with pesto. The evenings are accompanied by live music and dance orchestras, in a convivial atmosphere that attracts many visitors from Lomellina and beyond each year.

A Summer Event Not to Be Missed

For those visiting the province of Pavia at the end of July, the Sagra degli Gnocchi di San Sanasà is the perfect opportunity to taste a traditional dish and experience the identity of a town that takes pride in its conviviality and its Pro Loco.