San Felice d'Ocre Chestnut Festival

An autumn tradition in the L'Aquila Apennines

The San Felice d'Ocre Chestnut Festival is one of the most deeply rooted and anticipated food and wine events of the Abruzzo autumn. It takes place in the hamlet of San Felice d'Ocre, a small village in the Municipality of Ocre, in the province of L'Aquila, at the foot of Monte Ocre and surrounded by the chestnut groves that have defined the landscape of this corner of inland Abruzzo for centuries. With over thirty-five editions behind it, the event represents a true collective ritual for the local community and a major draw for visitors from across the region.

The chestnut takes center stage

At the heart of the festival is, naturally, the chestnut, served in a thousand ways: roasted, boiled, and incorporated into both sweet and savory dishes. The indoor food stalls offer local specialties, with a special focus on desserts handcrafted by the village women. The menu is rounded out by rustic soups, cured meats, cheeses, and strictly locally-sourced products. Options for those with specific dietary needs are also available, with gluten-free and lactose-free dishes available upon reservation.

Music, markets, and culture

Beyond the table, the festival offers a rich entertainment program. The days are enlivened by folk music, live performances, and DJ sets, while the craft markets provide an opportunity to discover local artisanal products. The event thus combines the celebration of autumn flavors with the rediscovery of folk traditions and the identity of this mountain territory.

Mountain excursions and sports

The Chestnut Festival is also an opportunity to experience the nature surrounding the village. The program includes horseback riding, e-bike tours, and guided walks through the chestnut groves, starting from the village square. Recent editions have also introduced more challenging sporting activities, with events linked to Monte Ocre and non-competitive hikes along the trails of the L'Aquila Apennines, designed for mountain and hiking enthusiasts.

A village to discover

Visiting the festival also means discovering the Municipality of Ocre and its hamlets, immersed in a fascinating natural setting just a few kilometers from the city of L'Aquila. Amidst the scent of roasted chestnuts, the conviviality of the stalls, and the colors of autumn, the San Felice d'Ocre Chestnut Festival confirms year after year its role as a guardian of the rural and gastronomic traditions of the Abruzzo mountains.