Sagra del Fritto Misto all'Ascolana

A festival dedicated to the king of the Piceno table

The Sagra del Fritto Misto all'Ascolana is one of the most beloved summer gastronomic events in Cossignano, a hilltop village of just over a thousand inhabitants overlooking the Tesino Valley, in the province of Ascoli Piceno (Marche). For a few evenings in August, the village gathers around the dish that best represents the identity of the Piceno region: the 'fritto misto all'ascolana', a symphony of crispy flavours that has made this corner of the Marche region famous far beyond its borders.

Where and when

The festival takes place in Piazzale Europa, the square at the entrance to Cossignano's historic centre, which is easily accessible and has ample space for food stalls and a stage. The event, with a long tradition, is carefully organised by the volunteers of the Pro Loco Cossinea, the true soul of the village's community life. The kitchen opens every evening around 7:30 PM and continues until late at night, while the entertainment programme begins after dinner.

The menu: stuffed olives and much more

The absolute star is, of course, the 'oliva all'ascolana', the large, tender olive stuffed with meat, breaded, and fried, the undisputed queen of Piceno fried food. Alongside it, the traditional dish offers a true triumph of deliciousness:

• 'Cremini fritti', cubes of set and breaded custard, a sweet counterpoint to the savoury olive
• Battered vegetables: courgettes, mushrooms, onion rings, and seasonal vegetables
• Fried meat and cheese bites
• A house special first course to start the meal
• Dry biscuits from local bakeries to finish

Everything is accompanied by the region's native wines — Pecorino, Passerina, and Rosso Piceno — produced by local wineries in their DOCG, DOC, and IGT varieties, expressions of the vineyard landscape surrounding Cossignano.

Music and shows under the stars

The festival is not just about good food: every evening features live musical entertainment, with bands and groups animating Piazzale Europa until late at night, alternating concert moments with cabaret and comedy shows. It's the classic formula of a Marchigiana village festival, where different generations gather around tables to eat, toast, and dance together.

Cossignano, a village to discover

Visiting the festival is also an opportunity to discover Cossignano, known as the "Navel of Piceno" for its central location between the sea and the mountains. The village retains its medieval walls, quiet alleyways, and a beautiful view of the hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves. The Sagra del Fritto Misto all'Ascolana remains one of the most authentic ways to experience a Marchigiana summer: no tourist veneer, just the genuine hospitality of a community that puts the best of its tradition on the table.