Sagra Mercato della Castagna di Montemonaco

A festival in the heart of the Monti Sibillini

The Sagra Mercato della Castagna di Montemonaco is the autumn event that celebrates the iconic product of this village in the Province of Ascoli Piceno, in the Marche region. It is traditionally held on the last weekend of October in the charming historic center of the town, within the Monti Sibillini National Park. For two days, the Municipality of Montemonaco welcomes visitors, hikers, and the curious in an atmosphere of yesteryear, filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts, folk music, and panoramic views of the mountains.

The chestnut of Montemonaco

The absolute protagonist of the event is the chestnut, and in particular the local chestnut, grown in centuries-old chestnut groves that thrive in a pure and unspoiled environment. It is a superior quality fruit, which every autumn the nature of the Sibillini mountains gifts to the inhabitants of the village and which is transformed into sweets, flours, soups, and even craft beer.

Food stalls and typical dishes

Characteristic food stalls are set up in the historic center where you can taste chestnut-based specialties prepared by the women of the village according to ancient and genuine recipes:

• Castagnaccio (chestnut cake) and chestnut roll cake
• Fried ravioli and chestnut skewers
• Freshly roasted chestnuts
• Vin brulé (mulled wine), warm wine flavored with spices and sugar

Market of typical products

Along the streets and squares of the village, a rich open-air market unfolds where you can buy fresh and dried chestnuts, flours, honey, preserves, truffles, potatoes, walnuts, hazelnuts, and apples directly from the producers, along with many specialties of the Sibillini tradition and local crafts.

Excursions, music, and activities for everyone

In addition to the gastronomic aspect, the festival offers guided excursions in the woods and chestnut groves in collaboration with the Monti Sibillini National Park Authority, workshops for children, and shows suitable for all ages, all accompanied by the magical sound of the accordion and folk music. The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Montemonaco, an association that promotes the socio-economic and cultural development of the territory together with the municipal administration and the Park Authority.

Why visit

The Sagra Mercato della Castagna is the ideal opportunity to discover Montemonaco and the autumn of the Monti Sibillini, combining good food, peasant tradition, and the beauty of one of the most fascinating villages in the Marche region.