Saint Martin's Festival
A festival of wine and seasoned bread amidst the autumn flavors of Roccella Valdemone
Edition 2026 not confirmed to date
This edition has not been confirmed by the organiser to date. We recommend checking before going.
About Saint Martin's Festival
The Saint Martin's Festival in Roccella Valdemone
Every year, in the heart of autumn, the small town of Roccella Valdemone—nestled between the Nebrodi mountains and the slopes of Mount Etna in the province of Messina (Sicily)—celebrates the Saint Martin's Festival, also known as the Wine and Seasoned Bread Festival. It is one of the village's most cherished traditions, drawing visitors from across the Messina area and neighboring towns.
A Revived Tradition
The event marks the restoration of a popular tradition that had been dormant for over forty years. Brought back to life by the Pro Loco of Roccella Valdemone, it has become a staple of the town's autumn calendar, uniting different generations around their shared roots.
The Flavors of the Festival
The heart of the day is the tasting of local, farm-to-table products. Along the stalls in Piazza Duomo, you can savor:
- U pani cunzatu, bread seasoned with new olive oil, the undisputed star of the festival
- Roasted chestnuts, harvested from the Nebrodi forests
- Local cheeses and cured meats
- Regional hazelnuts and walnuts
- Chestnut-filled cannoli
- New wine and local vintages
All this is accompanied by the colors and scents of autumn: new oil, grapes, mushrooms, pomegranates, and dried fruits.
Folklore, Carts, and Entertainment
The festival is more than just gastronomy. Piazza Duomo transforms into a stage for folkloric performances, traditional Sicilian music and songs, comedy, and, in the most elaborate editions, the evocative parade of Sicilian carts with folk groups. Over thirty stalls showcase local products and crafts, while cultural exhibitions are set up throughout the historic center to enrich the day.
A Nebrodi Village to Discover
Visiting the Saint Martin's Festival is also the perfect opportunity to discover Roccella Valdemone, an inland village set in a landscape of forests and mountains, just a stone's throw from the Nebrodi Park and the northern side of Mount Etna. It is a journey into authentic Sicily, defined by traditions, genuine flavors, and warm hospitality.
Saint Martin's Festival — edition 2026
The Saint Martin's Festival returns to Roccella Valdemone in 2026. Although official dates have not yet been released, the Pro Loco organization has confirmed that the program for the 2026 edition will be published shortly. As every year, we look forward to a mid-November weekend dedicated to new wine, seasoned bread, roasted chestnuts, and local Nebrodi products, featuring folkloric performances and artisan stalls in Piazza Duomo.
Practical information — Saint Martin's Festival
When
The festival is traditionally held in mid-November, coinciding with the feast of Saint Martin (November 11). Dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been announced.
Where
Roccella Valdemone (ME), Piazza Duomo, in the historic town center.
How to get there
By car, Roccella Valdemone can be reached from the A18 Messina-Catania motorway (Giardini Naxos or Taormina exits) by heading inland, or from the Randazzo area along the Nebrodi roads. The nearest airport is Catania-Fontanarossa.
Admission
Admission to the festival is free; tastings of local products are available at individual stalls.
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Where does it take place — Saint Martin's Festival
Piazza Duomo