Sloe Mushroom and Wild Asparagus Festival

A festival dedicated to the wild treasures of Sabina

The Sloe Mushroom and Wild Asparagus Festival takes place in Configni, a village perched at an altitude of about 550 meters in the Sabina hills, in the province of Rieti (Lazio). Every year, towards the end of May, the town celebrates two products that grow wild in the local woods and meadows: the prugnolo (sloe mushroom), a rare and highly aromatic spring mushroom, and wild asparagus, known for its intense, slightly bitter flavor. These ingredients are the symbols of a simple, authentic cuisine deeply rooted in the gathering traditions of this corner of Lazio.

Traditional Configni cuisine

The heart of the event is the food stalls, where visitors can enjoy typical dishes prepared by local volunteers. The signature dish is handmade strengozzi (also known as stringozzi), served with a wild asparagus sauce or with prized sloe mushrooms. Alongside the pasta, other local specialties are featured:

• Agnello alla confignana (Configni-style lamb), a local recipe tied to pastoral traditions;
• Pollo alla contadina (country-style chicken), cooked according to rural customs;
• Side dishes of field chicory and scafata, a rustic dish made with fava beans and seasonal vegetables;
• Homemade desserts and local wines.

The stalls, mostly covered to protect guests in case of bad weather, generally open in the evening, bringing the streets and squares of the historic center to life.

Music, atmosphere, and nature

The festival evenings are accompanied by live music, transforming the village squares into a lively gathering place where good food and conviviality meet. Organized by the Pro Loco Rinascita Configni, the event also focuses on environmentally friendly practices and provides a free shuttle service to easily reach the town center.

Configni, a village to discover

The festival is the perfect opportunity to explore Configni and its surroundings. The village retains its medieval layout, featuring an ancient castle with records dating back to the 11th century, and the Church of the Assumption with its exquisite gilded wooden elements. All around, the trails of Monte Cosce and the Tiber Valley offer walks, hikes, and stunning views, including climbing walls and vast spaces immersed in the pristine nature of the Sabina region.

A well-established tradition

Now in its many editions (the twentieth was celebrated in 2024), the Sloe Mushroom and Wild Asparagus Festival has become a staple of the Sabina spring calendar, attracting visitors from Rieti, Rome, and nearby Umbria, all drawn by the authenticity of the products and the genuine atmosphere of the village.