Sagra della Burridda e Gara Nazionale di Bocce

A tradition of over half a century

The Sagra della Burridda is the most anticipated festival in Leverone, a charming medieval village that is part of Borghetto d'Arroscia, in the province of Imperia, in the heart of the upper Arroscia Valley. Organised by the Pro Loco Leverone, the festival has roots in a tradition spanning over fifty years, linked to the feast of San Bernardo, the patron saint of the village church, celebrated on August 20th.

Burridda, a dish of Ligurian tradition

The heart of the festival is the burridda (or buridda), an ancient Ligurian dish made with stockfish, potatoes, chard, pine nuts, and olives. The recipe recalls the region's maritime and peasant traditions, when popular festivals were marked by fried bread, fritters, and dishes related to fish preservation. The dinner takes place outdoors, at large wooden tables, accompanied by local wine and an evening of dancing.

The national bowls competition

Alongside the gastronomy, the festival is famous for the national bowls competition recognised by the Italian Bowls Federation (F.I.B.): a pairs tournament valid for the Italian championship, the Trofeo Bocciofilo Nazionale Leverone, which attracts players and enthusiasts from all over Italy to the village courts.

Leverone and the upper Arroscia Valley

Visiting Leverone for the festival means discovering an authentic corner of the Ligurian hinterland, made of stone alleyways, ancient confraternities, and living traditions. The Sagra della Burridda is a perfect example of how a small community can keep its roots alive, uniting faith, gastronomy, and social life.